IAmA A Person in His 20s Who Went From - Rags To Riches - During The Recession. AMA. - IAmA

IAmA a person in his 20s who went from "rags to riches" during the reces...
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IAmA a person in his 20s who went from "rags to riches" during the recession. AMA.
(self.IAmA) submitted 6 days ago* by regoapps
this post was submitted on 31 Jan 2013 484 points (73% like it)
759 up votes 275 down votes shortlink:
http://redd.it/17lwcs
Hi, I'm Allen. I was told to create an AMA here after I posted a picture of my car in the /r/Autos subreddit. How I went from "rags to rich": I develop apps. My most popular app is called "5-0 Radio Police Scanner", which lets you listen to police radio chatter from around the world. You've probably seen this app used in the latest Spiderman movie (though, they rebranded it). My apps have been downloaded by somewhere between 15-20 million people. The car that got me to do an AMA here: I drive the very beautiful Azure Blue Lamborghini Aventador. My previous car was a Verde Ithaca Lamborghini LP560-4. My parents: My parents were raised in the slums of China. They fled here and raised my brother and me in New York City. My mother worked in a sweatshop in Chinatown before she quit to become a homemaker in her 30s. My father was a herbalist before he passed away unnaturally 3 months after I graduated from college. After his passing, no one in the family had a job (he passed away at the beginning of the 2008 recession). How I got started: A few months passed and I found a full-time job at Columbia University. Since I was the only one in the family with an income, I self-taught myself how to create apps during my free time. I
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then created apps on the weekends and weeknights in hopes of making some side income. I didn't expect this hobby to end up making me millions. What I do now: My father's sudden passing caused my mother to become mentally ill (though, she has mental problems before then as well). I take care of her now. During my free time, I code apps, do photography, write books, do volunteer work, give free advice to young entrepreneurs, help less fortunate people, and enjoy our short time here on Earth. Here's my verification: http://razzi.me/allen Ask me anything. Edit: I think I've answered every question thrown at me. Thanks everyone for your condolences and praise. I greatly appreciate it. If you'd like to learn more about me, follow me on Facebook and YouTube. If you'd like to learn more about my past, tips on how to be save time and be a better entrepreneur, and about my app marketing strategies, then grab a copy of my autobiography.
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[] FAT_LOUD_HOUND 26 points 6 days ago 7 Feb 7 Feb 7 Feb 12pm Jason B. Fischer Trine Skei Grande
Are you happy?

permalink [] regoapps [S] 36 points 6 days ago
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I have my ups and downs like everyone else. Sometimes it doesn't matter how much money you have when your mother is in a psychotic episode and tells you about how she thinks people are out to get her. Sometimes she's in a catatonic state, and just walks around the living room while mumbling to herself. I still haven't got used to it.
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I have South Asian background myself, and have experienced close to what you have. When my father passed away I was only 19, one of 5 siblings (two of which under 11 yrs old), and my mom started to really break down mentally. She had depression/anxiety issues before, but after my father's death- it was a whole other level. Due to taboo of seeking out professional mental healthcare (back home, only really "insane" people who are hospitalized in facilities visit mental healtcare professionals).
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For a few years, her personality had changed. She was irritated easily, yelled constantly, had crying spells, and couldn't keep composure at times, and at times had a scary amount of composure (zombie like). It was extremely difficult on her financially as well. My advice is don't ever give up on her. Treat her with love and respect, and always let her know things are fine now- things are secure, and that everything will be fine. Give her hugs, and tell her you love her. (South Asian kids usually don't straight out say MOM I LOVE YOU- it's a little corny). But I started to say it...she was a bit weirded out, and now she freely says it to all of us. Also, try to slowly break her taboo of seeking professional help. Say things like "it's always nice to talk to someone when you're a little stressed". Tell them you went to one, and it was a delight because she just talked/listened. (I actually did do this). etc. But never pressure. She'll feel like you think she's crazy/senile, and feel attacked. And always, lots of hugs and I love yous. :) Good luck! You have my best wishes.
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This is kind of how it worked for me. When my dad passed I was an absolute wreck, and I very much internalized it, thought I was doing a pretty good job and was completely opposed to going to talk to a "shrink", until someone started taking notice and pretty much forced me to go. I begrudgingly went and after just a couple questions it all just came pouring out of me, words and tears. Things I didn't even realize were bothering me, some completely unrelated to the reason I was there originally. One of the best cries and biggest reliefs I have ever had in my life.
permalink parent [] SpookyFox 1 point 6 days ago
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I think that it's very brave what you are doing, that you are taking of your mother. Do you have any help at all? By professionals I mean, I was just skimming through and saw something about your mother not wanting to take medication, is this the case?
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[] WisdomOfLife 1 point 5 days ago
Thats rough man. I have something similiar to that, but not on that level. Just remember, carpe diem! Edit: what i mean is dont let it take you down.
permalink parent [] andicotsteel 1 point 5 days ago
You should read the book "How of Happiness". Research has concluded 10% of our happiness comes from circumstances and material shit. Unfortunately relationships like the one you had with your dad and now with your mom count for more like 40% of our happiness. And then the remaining 50% of our daily happiness/unhappiness is hardwired in our lil brains.
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load more comments (2 replies) [] I-C-U-P 17 points 6 days ago
How much better is life when you got a lot of money?

I try not to spend too much of my money, so it's not significantly better. I just like the feeling of not being in debt and the ability to wake up whenever I want to. I also like having more free time to do volunteer work.
permalink parent [] Laereom 12 points 6 days ago
On that note -- the real thing that having lots of money saves you is time. Money does not buy happiness. I mean, really -- after a certain point, more money just doesn't make you more happy. We acclimate to whatever level of luxury we are accustomed to, so if we're willing to continually increase our spending, we may get some temporary happiness...but that's a terribly wasteful and unfulfilling way to live. The two things most strongly related to the internal happiness 'set points' that people have are low levels neuroticism, and an internal locus of control.
permalink parent [] regoapps [S] 2 points 5 days ago
Pretty much. Building good relationships with people and helping people out are a better sources of happiness. Spending money is temporary happiness.
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load more comments (2 replies) [] 10b-5 2 points 5 days ago
Money doesn't buy you happiness, but it eliminates a lot of the most common reasons for being unhappy.
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load more comments (2 replies) [] Snufflesaur 24 points 6 days ago
I'm unemployed and broke and I can wake up whenever I want to and I've got all the free time in the world.
permalink parent [] HUMOROUSGOAT 20 points 6 days ago
do you have a blue Lamborghini?

permalink parent [] Snufflesaur 14 points 5 days ago
no, but I don't care. I have a car and it works.

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[] iobserver 2 points 6 days ago
Do you wake up happy or sad?

permalink parent [] Snufflesaur 3 points 5 days ago
I'm quite content right now actually. and broke is a bit of an overstatement. I have enough to get by.
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load more comments (3 replies) [] wagonsarebetter 15 points 6 days ago
you have restored my faith in humanity.

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load more comments (5 replies) [] oh_the_humanity 0 points 6 days ago
Only on the stuff that counts like blue Lambo's ? ;) Just messin.
permalink parent [] jhenryf626 17 points 6 days ago
Estimated amount of money made from "5-0 Radio Police Scanner?

I don't like to disclose my net worth. But I will say that it makes 7-figures per year.
permalink parent [] kethinov 4 points 5 days ago
You hit the jackpot, man. Don't blow it all on fancy cars. Make sure you always have enough saved and invested so that if your app income takes a downturn you won't go from rags to riches back to rags. Also remember that for every guy out there who gets as lucky as you, there are thousands more who work just as hard from backgrounds that are just as fucked up and never catch a break. Welcome to the 1%.
Thanks. That's already what I'm doing. You might have missed the post where I said that I only spend 10% of my income.
permalink parent [] kethinov 1 point 5 days ago
I did miss it indeed. Sorry for being redundant. :)

permalink parent [] 1dr 12 points 6 days ago
It's pretty easy to estimate. If you've sold 20 million apps, and they cost $2.99 each assuming your little company is all yours - and Apple takes 30%, then that means before taxes you have made $41,860,000. After taxes, depending where you live, it would be at least $21,000,000.
permalink parent [] itsgavinc 8 points 6 days ago
My brother also develops apps, but only for iOS. I knew he was having success, but had no idea how much success until we went on a trip together and I saw a bank account statement that he had left out. His monthly deposits from Apple were $40-85k each month. He currently has ~35 apps in the App store. Most of them are extremely cheesy. Not the level of OP, but still crazy for something that he does from home, with no other employees. He just bought his second Range Rover.
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[] Fuuark 4 points 5 days ago
Most of them are extremely cheesy Can you give some examples?
permalink parent [] cyrashan 30 points 6 days ago
This sum is 100% incorrect. I don't know how many downloads 5-0 has had, but no app in existence that costs $2.99 has had that many downloads. Not even close. Lots of money comes from ads so that can equal millions, but 5-0 did not sell 20 million at $2.99.
permalink parent [] ChocolateSunrise 0 points 6 days ago
On the other side of the balance sheet the OP said he is getting ~50% of the ad revenue from his free apps.
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load more comments (1 reply) load more comments (12 replies) [] PolitBro 1 point 2 days ago
Why? I mean, I can sort of understand that you don't disclose it to people you know, in case they treat you differently, but why not in an IAmA, I'm weirdly super curious.
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load more comments (1 reply) [] GucciTheWalrus 45 points 6 days ago
I love hearing successful stories like this. I'd love for a hobby of mine to make some side money. Any advice you could give a 19 year old? :)
I have a ton of advice for you. Since you're the first person to ask, if you PM me your email address, I'll send you a free copy of my autobiography. I wrote that book to give to my future children as fatherly advice (in case I pass away too early). It is full of advice that my own parents gave me, as well as wisdom I learned from my failures and successes.
permalink parent [] foreverfae 14 points 6 days ago
Whats it called?!
permalink parent [] s3rila 259 points 6 days ago
how i met my money

Thanks for that. It's one of my favorite shows :)

permalink parent [] bigpapajon 20 points 6 days ago
You need to copyright that shit. Buy the url, too.

It's called Lifehacked. You can find the paperback on Amazon.com. Or you can get the cheaper eBook on my company's website.
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[] dbfish 28 points 6 days ago
Kindle edition on amazon, $9.99. eBook on your website, $19.95....

permalink parent [] inviscidfluid 38 points 6 days ago
He is loaded for a reason.

permalink parent [] dbfish 1 point 5 days ago
They always are. For a list of those who are, send me $50.
You were comparing a discount price with a retail price. The eBook on my website is $9.95 with a discount: http://regoapps.com/lifehacked/reddit
permalink parent [] dbfish 2 points 5 days ago
Ah ok. I followed the link to your website, clicked on buy ebook, and didn't' see anything about a reddit discount. Thanks!
permalink parent [] HB24 1 point 6 days ago
Is that you on the cover? Or someone you know?

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load more comments (1 reply) [] IAMARedneckScientist 5 points 6 days ago
Just came to say I love your Police Scanner app, I have been using it for almost 2 years :) Congratulations on your success. I just started and opened my own business so I can't wait to experience the feeling myself.
permalink parent [] regoapps [S] 1 point 5 days ago
Thanks! I'm always glad to hear from fans of my app. Good luck on your business.
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load more comments (2 replies) [] tacodepollo 1 point 6 days ago
I want one too... :( No no, I won't ask. Good job being a cool guy.
permalink parent [] eaglesguy96 1 point 6 days ago
Any love for the 284th person?

permalink parent [] bainpr 1 point 5 days ago
This is awesome, you are a great person.

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load more comments (1 reply) [] PotatoPop 15 points 6 days ago*
How long did it take you to learn how to make apps? Did you have any previous programming experience before trying? I'm trying to get myself motivated enough to start teaching myself programming. It seems like such a daunting task without a textbook and course. I can't afford to take classes since I've been unemployed for 2 years. Thankfully I got a call today for an interview Friday.
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edit: Beautiful color on that Aventador btw. I've never seen that color before.
It took me only a few weekends to learn how to make basic apps. Then a few months to learn the advanced stuff. My C.S. degree helped me learn it faster, though. I might make some free video tutorials on how to program/code apps for beginners. I think that might be helpful for people who can't afford classes. I couldn't afford classes myself when I started. I was forced to learn by self-teaching myself by reading free tutorials online (though many were poorly written) and experimenting. It's the only one in that color, so that might be why you've never seen it in that color before.
permalink parent [] barske 5 points 6 days ago
please do make some videos that would be really useful, I am looking into building some entrepreneurial skills and app building definitely seems very useful in today's age. Or if not could you recommend some books and links that you used to learn? I have almost no knowledge of programming. Also that color is absolutely gorgeous.
It's been 4 years or so. I don't remember which websites/books I read. There were too many.
permalink parent [] good00 2 points 5 days ago
what programming languages do you recommend for iphone apps and why? Did you do Android apps too?
Objective-C. Because it's the native language for iOS. Java for Android. Same reason.
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load more comments (2 replies) [] JohnWad 37 points 6 days ago
Probably gonna get laughed at for this but, how exactly do you make money off of free downloadable apps?
You get an ad agency to put ads in your free app. Other companies pay those ad agencies to put their company's ads in your app. There are many ad agencies like Google's Adsense and Apple's iAds. They take about 30-50% of that ad revenue, and give the rest to you.
permalink parent [] Elranzer 21 points 6 days ago
So please clear up this misconception about apps. Do you make more money off the "free" app (with ads) or the pay version app that has no ads? I've heard that generally free, ad-supported apps make more than pay-once apps. Which ad company generally makes you more money? Google (AdSense) or Apple (iAds), or another one?
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[] regoapps [S] 14 points 6 days ago
I used to make more from pay-once apps. But lately I've been making more from ads. So I guess for short-term, paid apps might make more. But for long term, ads might make more. It's probably best to have both. I've mostly stuck with iAds, and then I have other
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ad companies fill out the ads when iAds doesn't.

permalink parent [] tehhunter 1 point 5 days ago
There's probably a threshold number of users that makes it more worthwhile to use ads, probably at least a few tens of thousands.
permalink parent [] a1reddit 1 point 6 days ago
Please answer this...

permalink parent [] JohnWad 10 points 6 days ago
I should've realized that. Thanks for the answer.

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load more comments (1 reply) [] wheels_go_round 11 points 6 days ago
(Hi from the other thread!) Besides your gorgeous Aventador, what cars do you own?
Unlike most Aventador owners, I dont actually collect cars. I buy cars to drive them. I sold my Verde Ithaca Lamborghini LP560-4, because I knew that I wouldnt drive it after getting an Aventador. So right now, I dont have a large collection of exotic cars in my garage. Im not the type of guy who keeps expensive cars in his garage for the sake of having bragging rights.
permalink parent [] wheels_go_round 6 points 6 days ago
Do you have any daily cars or is the Aventador your one and only vehicle?
Sometimes I drive my mom's 2001 Toyota Corolla that she's kept for 13 years now when I need more seats (the Lambo only has 2). I mostly drive my Aventador as my daily driver. I don't have a commute, so it's not really that bad. Here's a pic of me at Walmart getting groceries.
permalink parent [] slymuthafucka 59 points 6 days ago
Says he's keeping it humble, license plate says "boss" ;)

It's more of a joke than a statement. I'm a fan of The Lonely Island.
Just givin' you shit man :) What kind of volunteer work do you do? I seem to do a lot of disaster relief myself.
In Florida, I've worked with a local volunteer group that packs dried healthy foods for no-income families (a.k.a. families with hungry children). Here's a picture of our volunteer group. It's a bit blurry, because I didn't have time to do a proper photo. And I don't do it for publicity, so you won't see me posing with hungry children and what not. In NYC, I've worked with my car club to raise funds for charity. We also
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went to NYU Hospital to give the seriously-ill children a free car show. Some of the children got free rides in the exotic cars (with parent's permission of course). They're really cool kids. They don't take life for granted.
Thats one thing i can relate to. Growing up poor with a single mother, you cherish everything, and dont take anything in life for granted. Thanks for paying it forward man!
permalink parent [] Knowmadz 3 points 6 days ago
You have the greatest license plate fucking ever.

:) Glad someone appreciates it.

permalink parent [] IAMARedneckScientist 3 points 6 days ago
So much respect and bro love out to you.

Thanks! Back at you.

permalink parent [] HelpMeLoseMyFat 1 point 6 days ago
I love the Jack Sparrow song, haha!

permalink parent [] wheels_go_round 5 points 6 days ago
That's pretty incredible that you switch to such a different car with no problems at all. It shows that you're really a grounded individual. Props.
permalink parent [] lolblitz 4 points 6 days ago
you know you're a bad ass mother fucker when your license plate says boss lol. good for you, i'm happy for you.
permalink parent [] blahtherr 1 point 6 days ago
im horrified that you would park so close to other cars, let alone in a walmart parking lot. have you ever got any dings or anything in your cars?
Nope. Walmart isn't actually that bad. People mostly just take pictures and pose with the car. When I parked at Walt Disney World, it was bad. Some kids there treated my car like it was a Hot Wheels toy.
permalink parent [] exzacklyright 6 points 6 days ago
Fucking minors...
permalink parent [] IUsedToBeAPygmy 16 points 6 days ago
I'm pretty sure that's illegal, even for rich people.

permalink parent [] pghdirector 1 point 5 days ago
Why would it be illegal? I would think you would just want to make
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sure to wash as much coal off of them first as you can.

permalink parent [] hypnoderp 2 points 6 days ago
. . .is a great way to end up in jail.

permalink parent [] GamersComm 1 point 4 days ago
You should have parked at one of their resort valets then took the transportation over to the park.
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load more comments (1 reply) [] BarbSueRoberts 2 points 5 days ago
I feel like people become hyper aware when they park next to these expensive cars. (Oh shit is a lambo. better drive real slow and open my door slowly)
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load more comments (2 replies) [] 10b-5 2 points 5 days ago
I never understood this, to a Lamborghini driver, the value of the car compared to his income is only a fraction of what the same ratio is for an average guy with a regular car. Why would he be more worried about it, than a guy who actually couldn't afford to fix it?
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load more comments (5 replies) [] Majician 2 points 6 days ago
You are a VERY BRAVE MAN for parking that car in the middle of the parking lot. I usually see the people with nicer cars (Benz's/BMW's....I know) park a few spots away from any other cars to avoid the potential dings.
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load more comments (6 replies) [] shrance84 1 point 6 days ago
Suicide door's up
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load more comments (1 reply) [] buckus69 1 point 6 days ago
Getting Groceries. Like a boss!

permalink parent [] willowthewizard 1 point 6 days ago
Followup question: Have you ever caught a flock of spectators waiting outside the Boss-mobile anxiously awaiting for the driver to return only to be greeted with a sea of disappointment b/c "You're not Rick Ross." Followup comment to the followup question : Be careful, someone's apparently gunning for Rick Ross.
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load more comments (1 reply) [] pesmerga2007 3 points 6 days ago
This. It's such a shame to buy a work of art like a lambo, and hide it from the world. Most people (myself included) won't have the good fortune to own one.. Share it with the world! You sir. I like you.
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[] regoapps [S] 1 point 5 days ago
Thanks. I shall share!

permalink parent [] heyhowmuchfun 12 points 6 days ago
How did you get the idea for the app, why the Radio Police scanner?
Since I grew up in NYC, I always hear sirens and police cars passing by. I also went to a middle school across the street from a police precinct, so I walked by police officers a lot. And when I was 5 or so, someone asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up. I told her that I wanted to be a cop. When she asked why, I said that I wanted to protect people and help them. I never ended up being a police officer, but I still wanted to help out in a way. Thats really where the police scanner app came into play. That app has helped a lot of people in numerous ways. I get emails from policemen and firemen thanking me for the app, because sometimes their own radio wouldnt work, and theyd switch over to my app. And then I'd get emails from people who said that the app helped them during natural disasters to get real-time information that the news media are a bit slow to report on.
permalink parent [] HUMOROUSGOAT 4 points 6 days ago
Dont you think it would be used more for bad then good? Drug dealers and criminals keeping an eye out for police.
SWAT/Raid type of communications aren't really going to be on the dispatch channels. We block those feeds for a reason.
permalink parent [] blackfuse 4 points 5 days ago
That's what I thought it was made for.

permalink parent [] lAmShocked 3 points 5 days ago
if they are kicking down doors they are not on the public bands.
permalink parent [] mrpickles 4 points 6 days ago
Wow, that's really cool that your app is helping people in their time of need. I always just thought it was a novelty hobby for some people to listen. Never thought to use it in the ways you described.
There's a lot of other useful uses. Sometimes ER doctors use it to get real-time information about who's going to their ER before they even arrive. This gives them more time to prepare for the victim. During Detroit's Devil Nights (look it up), volunteer firefighters use my app to get information about arson fires and they help put them out.
permalink parent [] CentipedeArm 2 points 6 days ago
Admit it, you needed a reliable and mobile police scanner so that you could become a superhero. You realized you couldn't truly help protect the people with all the red tape that comes with being an officer of the law, so you've taken it into your own hands. I'm onto you Regoapps!
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[] regoapps [S] 3 points 5 days ago
Did the Aventador give it away?

permalink parent [] DurianDurian 1 point 5 days ago
Russell Sage?
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load more comments (1 reply) [] HeyManHowAreYa 1 point 5 days ago
Don't forget the drug dealers who know when the cops are dispatched to their location thanks to your app.... Just busting your balls. Congrats on your new fortune.
permalink parent [] SwampJew 1 point 5 days ago
Hmm. Ever thought of taking out a radio or television advertisement in disaster-prone areas to promote the app? edit: If you do this, fricken pay me. So tired of getting stiffed.
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load more comments (2 replies) [] laketravisbb8 20 points 6 days ago
1. have you ever become overwhelmed with the sudden wealth? going from "rags to riches" must have been great, and good on you mate, but was there ever a time you were thinking maybe this is too much? 2. has the police app been the most successful so far? or do you have others that are doing well, too?
1. My parents taught me to be humble, and I've kept myself grounded as much as I can. I try not to forget who I was just 5 years ago or so. I don't see myself as a "wealthy" person. I see myself as a middle-class person with small lottery winnings. I've tucked away about 90% of my income into savings/investments and promised myself to never touch those unless it's an emergency. I also kept my friends from childhood, as they are my true friends. What I'd say was "too much" was that I'm the only person taking care of my mother, who was diagnosed with paranoid psychosis. She shows signs of schizophrenia as well. Taking care of her has been stressful, but I'm the only one who's willing to do it, so I do. 2. It's the most successful, but my other apps have made small fortunes as well.
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[] FordSVT1 15 points 6 days ago
Don't be afraid or too prideful to pay for professional help with your mother.
I tried. But my mother doesn't believe that she has mental problems. When her doctor gave her anti-psychotic medicine, she threw them out.
permalink parent [] FordSVT1 6 points 6 days ago
Good luck with her, but keep pressing the issue or it will end up much worse in the end.
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[] RandomCDN 9 points 6 days ago
I found this book very helpful in understanding a family member problems. "I Am Not Sick, I Don't Need Help!: How to Help Someone with Mental Illness Accept Treatment" By Xavier Amado
I actually have that book.

permalink parent [] riguy401 1 point 5 days ago
I must check out that book...my mother's in a similar situation thanks for posting that.
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load more comments (1 reply) [] aluminum_falcon 3 points 6 days ago
Just in case this sparks ideas for approaching it sideways: I've got a friend whose mother is mentally ill, but they've managed to get her to take her meds by working within the cultural context of her original native country and the illness itself: she hallucinates, but interprets it as seeing ghosts. She doesn't believe she's ill, but she knows that the pills make the ghosts go away. And good luck. You're a good person for helping her.
My mom has a stigma with the pills, because people have a stigma with the mentally ill. She knows what it's really for: anti-psychotic. She's afraid of being labeled as psychotic. She lost many friends after they found out that she was psychotic, so she's learned to avoid being labelled as so.
permalink parent [] scumbag-reddit 2 points 6 days ago
My sister had the same problem with taking her meds. She now gets a shot once a month and it has pretty much turned her life around (So far).
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load more comments (1 reply) [] bishopxi 1 point 6 days ago
Be strong, sometimes tough love is the best love.

permalink parent [] sevenalive 1 point 5 days ago
These people don't know what they are talking about. My dad was a paranoid skitzophrenic. I bet we can share stories. He kept getting worse. He would boil water in the microwave, thinking it was killing Brian. Brian was his frienemy in his head. He would take a laser pointer and a flash light and run it back and forth over his head. He died last july of cancer. Honestly it was for the best, he wasn't my dad anymore. How often do people want you to help them or buy them something? I seen previous amas where most devs say they aren't rich. I could have made several apps by now and could have paid my soul sucking 23K student loan. You given me the encouragement. I'm a c# guy but I been wanting to make iOS app to see if I can be successful. Who knew a police scanner, Jelly.
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load more comments (1 reply) [] lycopersiyum 15 points 6 days ago
I just wanted to say that I am so happy for you that you were able to achieve what you have achieved. I don't feel very dissimilar to you in terms of life story (except that I'm white American, not Chinese only to be specific). You are one of those real heroes of life that don't make the "news for idiots" channels (by which I mean all of them). I am a better person for simply having read your story.
Thanks. I was initially hesitant to post a short summary of life, because I was taught to be modest. But now I'm glad I did.
permalink parent [] lycopersiyum 2 points 1 day ago
You should be glad. Nice job! You are a huge role model. You really did it! You are an awesome role model for me and for my niece and nephew. Aside from that, your story simply makes life a better thing for everybody else. You have blazed a path of good example that will help some lesser people and cause people like me to forever bless your name. Thank you.
permalink parent [] jduece 28 points 6 days ago
"Humble" says the kid with the blue lambo, lol. That's a little flashy.. At least if it were black, I might consider you humble. But not blue lol I'm not hating, I'm just sayin...
That's a fair assessment. But that's assuming that I drive my car everywhere and go "stunting" or whatever. My car doesn't define me, nor do I want it to define me. The way I talk to strangers and treat people is how I'd like to be defined. I've been through a messed-up life and getting a nice car is how I dealt with it. My car is my fortress of solitude, where I can be alone for a few minutes and enjoy my life. As for the color, I thought blue wasn't that flashy. It's a pretty classy color for a Lamborghini. Definitely much less flashier than the lime green that I used to have.
permalink parent [] kennerdoloman 26 points 6 days ago
Thank you so much for this answer. I'm often prejudiced against the wealthy, but you've reminded me that there are indeed rich people who haven't been corrupted by their wealth. Thanks for doing this AMA!
permalink parent [] whiskey_krik 2 points 6 days ago
next time I hear people ragging on reddit for being a ridiculous circlejerk devoid of any real discourse, I'll think of comments like this. i've gained a lot of perspective from being on reddit.
permalink parent [] ZombieBarney 2 points 6 days ago
You've got to live in Alaska to be left alone in THAT car.

Sometimes I just turn on the music and drive in the middle of the night for a cruise. Usually there is nobody on the streets to bother me then. It's just me, the car, and good music.
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[] Laereom 7 points 6 days ago
You know what's flashy? A red lambo. Go home, jduece, you're drunk.
permalink parent [] raziphel 1 point 6 days ago
at least it's not purple and yellow striped...

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load more comments (1 reply) [] MrChildren 2 points 5 days ago
Allowing a spoil does not mean flashy. It would be stupid to obtain wealth and not buy something you really want. It's not living outside of his means and he enjoys it. So more power to the guy.
permalink parent [] DaveyFoSho 1 point 6 days ago
Must be doing pretty fucking well if you tuck away 90% and still have cash to go out and buy Lambos. Congrats!!
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load more comments (4 replies) [] matthewrpollock 1 point 5 days ago
If you ever need someone to talk to, I am here for everyone. I tried to make that clear in other posts. Everyone needs an outlet to discuss life. Sometimes a stranger is easier to talk to since you don't really worry about repercussions.
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load more comments (1 reply) load more comments (5 replies) [] thisguise 20 points 6 days ago
Hi Allen! Thank you for doing this AMA. I am a currently a senior marketing major and the whole focus of one of my classes this semester is to design and market an app. Reading through your comments has given me some great insight! This might be going out on a limb, but I know my professor and class would go nuts if we could skype with you during class one day? Thoughts? :)
Please PM me with more details.

permalink parent [] tevinanderson 17 points 6 days ago
First, Thanks for doing this AMA. Also, my condolences to you and your family for your loss. I have so many questions for someone like you, but I'll just keep it to a few. Thanks in advance for your time. Do you build your apps yourself as a developer? Or do you have the idea, and have a team build them for you? Was there ever a "hump" to get over, before getting the massive amount of downloads you now have? If so, how did you get over that hump (viral marketing? paid advertising? "luck"?)? What's the fastest you've ever gotten your car up to? On the track or otherwise...
permalink [] regoapps [S] 25 points 6 days ago*
Thank you for your condolences. I build apps myself, though I've done consulting work for other app companies as well where I don't code. Yes, there was a hump to get over. My app used to be
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a paid app, and it did pretty well (but not extremely well). I then created a free version for it and advertised the free version on many forums. The free version became the #4 free app at some point with 80,000 downloads a day. The people liked the free version so much that they bought the paid version and shot the paid version to the #1 paid app for a month back in 2009. Edit: Spelling Fastest I've gone is probably 180. I always keep running out of road to go faster.
permalink parent [] farte_butte 5 points 6 days ago
Try the Autobahn in Germany ;)

permalink parent [] xampl9 2 points 6 days ago
The Autobahn is pretty crowded these days, and many sections of it now have speed limits. :( But if you get up early on a Sunday morning and hit one of the unlimited speed sections, you could possibly have a fun time.
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load more comments (2 replies) [] JCollierDavis 4 points 6 days ago
Give the 130-150 Club a try. They have runs at Bonneville in early September.
permalink parent [] PostNaGiggles 1 point 5 days ago
The Isle of Man in the UK has no speed limits outside the villages. The UK Top Gear guys have a lot of fun there.
permalink parent [] forza101 8 points 6 days ago
No question here. It's just nice to see that it doesn't seem that money will change you. It's nice that you help others when you can. Also, if you like motorsports, you should check out Formula 1. It's awesome.
Thanks. I try not to let money control me. That's a slippery slope. It should be the other way around. I also help others when I can because when I was going through bad circumstances, I wished people would lend me a hand. Sometimes I think that this world would be a much nicer place to live in if people just put themselves in other people's shoes.
permalink parent [] FineLikeAPorcupine 2 points 6 days ago
I'm sincerely glad you have had a successful life.

permalink parent [] VioxxIsDelicious 1 point 6 days ago
I don't understand entirely, are you implying that a motorsport fan might not have heard of Formula 1?
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load more comments (3 replies) [] throwaway50989 8 points 6 days ago
Did you have a CS degree? What can someone do if they want to get into the same thing (making apps or other things)?
I have a B.S. in Computer Science and Computer Engineering. If you want to get started, I'd say
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that you should learn how to do some programming (through class or books or free tutorials online). I actually started programming in my early teens. So if a teenager could learn it, then almost anyone smarter than a teenager can. I also started off as a web developer, and that made it easier for me to learn programming. I'm thinking about making free video tutorials on how to code apps, since I get this question very often.
permalink parent [] NoobWill 1 point 6 days ago
Would you suggest to get a CS degree or CE degree? I've been split over this discussion for a while now.
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load more comments (2 replies) [] captain_obvious_scum 1 point 5 days ago
I uhhhh got no degree in those fields but I'm learning fast in coding in Java and already did Python for a few months before New Years. Think I could start coding apps after some more months of Java?
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load more comments (1 reply) [] Robbbbbbbbb 8 points 6 days ago
The steps I took when starting to code (With the exception of buying a Mac for that purpose): Learn Objective C Learn basic web coding (PHP/HTML/etc) Buy a Mac for X Code (if you're coding for iOS) Enroll as a developer
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[] benzilla04 1 point 6 days ago
Woo! I'm already 1/4 of the way there! (2nd point)

permalink parent [] h0och 3 points 6 days ago*
You could also spend some evenings watching lectures on iTunes U. Just as a starter. http://i.imgur.com/j52iFuf.png http://www.apple.com/education/itunes-u/ Lots of interesting things for free there. Just get iTunes for Windows. Or on the mac you have it already of course.
permalink parent [] KungFuHamster 1 point 5 days ago
There are tons of free learning materials out there. Google is your friend. I've taught myself a host of languages and skills for the price of my internet connection.
permalink parent [] s3rila 5 points 6 days ago
1. What get you more money? Android app , iphone app , windwos phone(if you do them) , ad on android or ad on Iphone ? 2. Witch platform do think is the best to program to ? 3. what's the thing you are the most proud of in your apps?
1. From what I hear, iPhones paid apps make more money than Android. Android users tend to get free apps, so there's ad revenue there. And Windows... I don't think they're
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even in the same league. 2. For paid apps, go iOS. For free apps, go iOS and Android. 3. I'm pretty proud of 5-0 Radio for Windows 8. I self-taught myself how to code a Windows 8 app in under a month by reading a 800-page eBook, and finished coding it in 5 days. Though it was 5 days straight of coding with only around 4 hours of sleep between each day. That 800-page eBook is free from Microsoft, by the way, if anyone's interested in reading it.
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[] trueneverland 2 points 6 days ago
Link to the eBook? Thanks

http://blogs.msdn.com/b/microsoft_press/archive/2012/10/29/free-ebook-programmingwindows-8-apps-with-html-css-and-javascript.aspx
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load more comments (1 reply) [] ttgl 1 point 6 days ago
I'd be interested in reading it .__.

http://blogs.msdn.com/b/microsoft_press/archive/2012/10/29/free-ebook-programmingwindows-8-apps-with-html-css-and-javascript.aspx
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load more comments (1 reply) [] Laereom 1 point 6 days ago
My wife develops Android apps -- in one of her early contracts, she was telling me that although it took only her to develop the same app as an entire team of iPhone developers, the iPhone app made somewhere around 50 times as much revenue.
permalink parent [] HUMOROUSGOAT 1 point 6 days ago
that is awesome, how do you stop yourself from going on reddit/other internet sites? serious question.
I have been informed by Reddit to not answer this question. You will remain on Reddit indefinitely. One of us. One of us. In all seriousness, it takes discipline and self-control. Make schedules and stick to it.
permalink parent [] butmrlahey 1 point 6 days ago
Link for the lazy

permalink parent [] zainadeel 1 point 5 days ago
What is the name of that eBook? Thanks :)

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load more comments (2 replies) [] jknlsn 1 point 5 days ago
Awesome, that's incredible! What was the name of the eBook and where can you get it from?
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load more comments (1 reply) [] lightfragments 6 points 6 days ago
Allen, I was severely depressed with thoughts of suicide and then I discovered this. My parents also came from poor villages and my mother and brother are disabled. My dad is a cab driver in nyc which is very hard because there are so many grandiose people. I have been supporting them and knowing I will be the only one to take care of them has put a lot of pressure on me. It has also made me work harder and I also feel living for others is real life. Your success has given me new insight, inspiration and hope. I can tell your sincerity from the way you answered the questions. Thank you for being a kind person and helping others.
Thanks very much for your kind words. I am not afraid to admit that I've had thoughts of suicide as well after my father passed away and my mother became mentally ill. I felt like giving up to end the stress. But I knew that if I did, then nobody would take care of my mother. And I'd be running away from my responsibilities. So I kept fighting and I kept working harder. I wrote about it more in my autobiography. PM me your email, I'll send you a free copy. I think it will help you.
permalink parent [] dangerz 5 points 6 days ago
What inspires you to make an app? How do you get your ideas? Car question: What's the gas mileage like? :) Have you gotten it on the track? Beautiful car.
I make things that I'd use myself. My litmus test for an app is that if even I'm not using it, then it's not a great app. I've created a lot of failed apps and successful apps. And the successful ones are usually the ones I actually use myself. The failed ones are usually app ideas that people throw at me. The trick is to keep improving the successful ones and move on from failed ones. I've made almost 26 major updates to 5-0 Radio. Gas mileage is bad (single digits). I can literally watch the gas tank indicator drop as I'm driving. I haven't gotten it on the track yet, though I want to.
permalink parent [] dangerz 5 points 6 days ago
My most successful app came using the same method (if I don't like it, it's not worth it). Granted it's not nearly as successful as yours, but it still makes some money after these years.
permalink parent [] willowthewizard 1 point 6 days ago
Has there ever been an app while still in Dev that you figured would end up being a money-maker only for it to flop?
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load more comments (1 reply) [] good00 1 point 5 days ago
did you research extensively all the similar competing apps before you decided on what apps to create? What can a new app creator do now that the app market is so saturated?
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load more comments (1 reply) [] karmehameha 4 points 6 days ago
Hey Allen. What is the best way to start learning how to code apps ?
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What programming languages do you use to code your apps ? What is Robert Himler like in person and how was it working with him ?
Hey, You may want to learn how to program first. I learned programming first, so I don't know if it's possible to just skip to coding apps. But if you want to learn it the right way, you should probably go to a class for it or read a book on it. As a last resort, I'd go to some free online tutorials. I'm also thinking about making some free video tutorials to teach beginners and get them started. I'll post them on my Facebook or something when I finish them. Objective-C for iOS and HTML5/Javascript for Windows 8. Robert Himler was pretty nice to me and others. I mostly hung out with him rather than worked with him. He's pretty competitive.
permalink parent [] karmehameha 2 points 6 days ago
I have taken programming classes in highschool and can code .NET decently. I can also code database orientated. Is this a good start ? or do you suggest I start learning C# first ?
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load more comments (2 replies) [] Ferdaayz 3 points 6 days ago
nice car! have you ever considered starting a youtube channel with videos of your car to share the piece of art, like DoctaM3?
I actually do have a small youtube channel under the username "regovids". I haven't posted much videos of my car lately, because I've been busy coding 5-0 Radio for Windows 8. But I'll be adding more videos of my car on there in the coming weeks.
permalink parent [] inhindsite 4 points 6 days ago
My condolences of course but im interested in how exactly your dad died? Purely because you said it was unnatural. What was your initial reaction when you saw the money coming in from your app, surprised? Shocked? Did it feel like you won the lottery? How did you celebrate, apart from buying a sweet sweet car. Very happy for you, i do love a success story.
I really don't want to talk about the way he died. The people who caused his death got away with it, and for me to talk about it will just cause me to dwell on emotions/memories that I've spent a long time getting rid of/moving on from. It was a gruesome death. I actually didn't buy the car right away. I paid off my debts, and I saved my money. I also bought some real estate. As for the feeling, yes, it felt surreal. I talk about the feeling in the first few pages of my book. You can read the first few chapters for free on Amazon.com
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load more comments (1 reply) [] Robbinthehood5 6 points 6 days ago
I work for one of the top 3 mobile advertising platforms to help people like you monetize their apps. I'm familiar with your police App and I must say it doesn't have the highest of click thru rates :) My question is which of the mobile ad platforms has been the best to work with and brought you the most income?
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Yes, that's a problem with having a radio app. People are listening to it, but not looking at the screen. Therefore, my app gets bad click-thru rates =/ Each mobile ad platform has their moments. Sometimes MillennialMedia gives me the highest eCPM, sometimes iAd, sometimes JumpTap. I don't have a favorite at the moment. I just split it evenly among all of them. But anytime an employee from one of the ad platform calls me or emails me to tell me about a great ad campaign with high eCPM, then I'd give that company more impressions. I had a phone call once from QuattroWireless (now called iAd), and they had a Tide ad campaign going on. In one week, my 5-0 Radio app raised $70,000 in ad revenue. That's what I call a great mobile ad company. Edit: Spelling
permalink parent [] tevinanderson 4 points 6 days ago
That's amazing. But I'm almost certain that Tide probably wasted a fortune on mobile ads and is now rethinking their mobile ad marketing strategy :-p
A lot of people were experimental with mobile ads in the beginning. I try not to question their marketing tactics. They're a billion dollar company. I'm just a multimillion.
permalink parent [] nootdude 7 points 6 days ago
Did all the money and nice cars help you get laid?
I'm not a man-whore, so I didn't sleep around enough to answer that question. The cars are good ice breakers, though. Normally you'd have to start up the conversation with an attractive girl. But with the car, they approach you instead (and act nervous). Though, I should mention that sometimes this works against you. A girl once told me that she avoided me, because she assumed that I got my cars by ill means. My other friends who drive Lambo's tell me that it's easy to get laid with the car. But I don't think the girls who will sleep with me because of my car are girls I'd want to be with. I'm not a casual sex kind of guy.
permalink parent [] MetalGearFlaccid 10 points 6 days ago
Were you the fresh prince of bel air before you made your money? How do all your friends have Lamborghinis?
I made a couple of new friends in my car club. Not all my friends have Lamborghini's... some have Ferrari's, Bugatti's, Rolls Royce...
permalink parent [] imakeyboard 71 points 6 days ago
Best firstworldproblem, ever.

permalink parent [] MozzarellaSquirrel 8 points 6 days ago
...
permalink parent [] 32deuce32 2 points 6 days ago
Photo's to r/autos?
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load more comments (4 replies) [] JonasVF 2 points 6 days ago
ugh i hate those ferarri plebs
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[] sevenalive 1 point 5 days ago
I wouldn't mind being in your entourage, you can call me turtle.

permalink parent [] mypretties 0 points 6 days ago
You seem like a nice down to earth kind of guy- and with the answer above don't seem to be misogynistic. So my question is, why would you put a hot scantly clad woman on the cover of your book with the car? Isn't the implication "look at the things I can afford!" now that I'm rich? Isn't that objectifying women? There's only two possible implications: 1) Look at what I can afford now, hot cars and women (meaning you can "buy" women as a thing) 2) Look how hot women want to be with me now (meaning women are shallow, gold diggers). I'm just saying all this because you seem like an intelligent, solid dude or otherwise I would not have bothered.
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load more comments (3 replies) [] captain_obvious_scum 1 point 5 days ago
Isn't it step 1. Be attractive? 1. Don't be attractive? Or are the girls really all gold digging...
permalink parent [] sleepingdeep 2 points 5 days ago
aw yiss
permalink parent [] 10b-5 2 points 5 days ago
I'll add my 2 cents to this question as a young Ferrari driver. It helps you get laid with all the women you shouldn't want :(
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load more comments (1 reply) [] seekandknow 2 points 6 days ago
I really admire you, for what you have achieved, and you seem like a decent person. But, I'd never want to be you. I can tell you really love your parents and I sincerely hope you find someone to give you the love that they are unable to give you now.
permalink [] hellorachelle 3 points 6 days ago
what is your main mantra in life? what do you want to get out of life?
Before my father passed away, he said something along the lines of: "Pride, disappointment, and fear all go away when you don't expect to live another day. What's left is what's important. Our time on this Earth is short. Make it count, son." Bruce Lee once said, "Real living is living for others."
permalink parent [] hellorachelle 2 points 6 days ago
great advice! also good words of wisdom throughout the ama. keep up what youre doing! as a new graduate, I can say that most of us can only wish to make it like you have!
permalink parent [] refuah 3 points 6 days ago
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I love your app. I use it everyday!!!! I love knowing stuff going on around :)
Thanks!
permalink parent [] scott1d 2 points 6 days ago
How much programing do you need to know beforehand?

I knew C++ and a lot of web development languages. I also knew a lot of languages that I don't really use (I blame college for that).
permalink parent [] vadvaro10 3 points 6 days ago
i am very proud for you. i've used your app. it is great. sadly, i'm a 30-something that made the reverse trip from riches to rages. oh well, maybe my 40s will seesaw back :)
Thanks! Sorry to hear about that. Life has its ups and downs (even for people like me).
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load more comments (2 replies) [] 015unknown 3 points 6 days ago
Has your ethnicity ever acted as a hurdle or even as an advantage in your success?
Good question. I don't think it mattered. I think what matter more was that I was nerdy-looking in school (with the grandma glasses and all), so not many girls at school talked to me. I think this freed up a lot of my time to learn things, such as learning how to code websites/programs. I think that if I spent my high school years dating instead of learning how to code, things might have turned out differently. So, bullies, don't beat up the nerds. They might be your boss someday! :)
permalink parent [] 015unknown 1 point 6 days ago
This might be a personal question, but what college did you go to? Do you personally believe that secondary education plays a significant role in one's success?
permalink parent [] waterskier2007 3 points 5 days ago
Not O.P. but quoting him FWIW It took me only a few weekends to learn how to make basic apps. Then a few months to learn the advanced stuff. My C.S. degree helped me learn it faster, though.
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load more comments (1 reply) [] Cheezis_Chrust 3 points 6 days ago
After buying your app, I bought a developer account. I thought "Hey..if all these people can do it, then why can't I?" I have no official programming experience, no training in that area. I only have random google searches. I've written code only for specific applications, such as IRC scripts, game servers, and simple web pages. I work in healthcare IT, so I've also written many simple vbscripts for computers at work.
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Just things to make life easier. So after buying the SDK, I took to google. I tried to learn the secrets of iOS development, only to realize you basically have to have a Mac just to do it. I don't have the money lying around to spend that much on a laptop, so I took an old Dell laptop and converted it to OS X. I installed the SDK and developer tools, played around with the programs I downloaded, but I had no idea where to even start. My gears wouldn't turn, I couldn't come up with ANYTHING that hadn't been done before. And I had no idea what I could do to make existing ideas better. I was stuck. TL;DR I ended up wasting $99 because it wasn't as easy as I thought it would be. There's no real point in making all the effort to learn to code if you can't come up with an idea in the first place. So, props to you for having a great idea, and actually succeeding where many others have failed! This story really makes me want to take a second chance at iOS apps, but I'm hesitant..obviously. I love your car, as well. My first choices would have been an Aston Martin DB-S or Bentley Brooklands. Can't hate on an Aventador though, they're amazing machines.
permalink [] ComptechNSX 1 point 6 days ago*
Try a different approach. Don't try to make something that hasn't been done before or make something better. Start with something very basic. Your own flashlight app or grocery list app. Much is learned from small beginnings. :)
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load more comments (1 reply) [] Volvo802 2 points 6 days ago
Its nice to hear a success story. My condolences to your family. Family is what means the most to me. I've begun learning code from as many free sites as I can. I'm hoping to try and excel at it and at least make a decent living. Seems like coding is quite a trade to get into if you can. I guess I don't have any questions for you that aren't personal. Though if you'd ever care to take me for a ride in your Lamborghini, it would probably the most exciting part of my life to date. I've always had an extreme desire to be around such cars, as how they aren't just machines but works of art. Though I can say I'll likely never have the opportunity too. I'll likely be sticking to my basic "single" turbo cars :P I just appreciate your time on AMA as its an inspiration for me to keep going.
permalink [] Volvo802 2 points 6 days ago
Actually, I thought of some. How long on average does it take you to program an app, and do you use a program or start from scratch? If you use a program, it'd be nice to know.
You're kind of forced to use a program to code (Xcode for iOS, Eclipse for Android, Visual Studio for Windows). But if you're talking about templates, then no. I don't use templates. I code from scratch, because I've learned how to. Btw, Aventadors actually don't have turbos.
permalink parent [] FordSVT1 3 points 6 days ago
They can have turbos. :) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TDZyCHlgO6o

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load more comments (2 replies) [] zsnowmanz 2 points 6 days ago
Did you know you app would be a bit hit when you invented it?
I always assume that my apps wouldn't be successful. I rather be pleasantly surprised than overly disappointed. It also keeps me from being lazy, because it forces me to keep improving
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the app until people really really liked it.

permalink parent [] Dr_StrangeClouds 2 points 6 days ago
Any advice for entrepreneurs

That's a bit too generic of a question, because I could write a whole book of advice for entrepreneurs. In fact, I actually did. It's called "Lifehacked" and can be found on Amazon.com. But here's some quick advice, "Don't fear failure. Not failure, but low aim, is the crime. In great attempts it is glorious even to fail." - Bruce Lee
permalink parent [] Mattgopow 1 point 6 days ago
Florida, huh? Are you friends with Robert Himler at all? I know he has a few nice cars in the Winter Park area.
I co-own Razzi.me with Robert Himler.

permalink parent [] Mattgopow 2 points 6 days ago
Oh hey, that's pretty cool! In that case, where is that spot you volunteer at? (considering you also live in CFL). I've done some work at Harvest Time International and occasionally make the drive to St. Pete to help out Salvation Army etc. Always looking for more cool volunteer opportunities though!
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load more comments (1 reply) [] voze 2 points 6 days ago
What do the say to the fact the guy has arguably been outed as a fraud?
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load more comments (1 reply) [] atongana 1 point 6 days ago
He has a short part on one of his video's and there's a guy with him, is that you? He talks about coding all day.
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load more comments (1 reply) [] captain_obvious_scum 1 point 5 days ago
Robert Himler? That young white guy with that other successful blonde chick who also drives and owns an older Lambo Gallardo and Audi R8? They're the ones advertising that Infinite Prosperity Investment software thing. What are your thoughts on that? A scam?
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load more comments (7 replies) [] razihk 1 point 6 days ago
I want to learn how to create apps, where do i go? You are living the american dream! You are such an inspiration man. My family is coming from nothing, living in canada - and we're just all working our ass off. Best wishes to you. :)
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To be honest, I'm not exactly sure where to point you, because I learned how to code apps years ago. Try searching Google for some tutorials? That's how I did it. However, I do have plans on making free video tutorials on how to start creating apps, because I get asked this question a lot. I'll post them on my Youtube account when I'm done.
permalink parent [] lAmShocked 1 point 5 days ago
/r/androiddev/
permalink parent [] JamesRPhoto 2 points 6 days ago
Great, and very inspiring AMA. When I was 19, coming from a lower income family I took a big risk and put the rest of my tuition money into opening a photography studio after quitting college. For me, the first few thousand was really my big exciting moment, having rarely seen 4 figures in my bank account before-hand. I'm 20 now, half a year later and the studio's still running and picking up steam, while I don't expect to every see 7 figures in my bank account, my goal is that I will be able to help out my family like that in a few years. Keep on keeping on, man!
permalink [] regoapps [S] 1 point 6 days ago
Thanks for reading/visiting my AMA. My hope for this AMA is to let people know that all hope isn't lost. It's still possible to turn your life around. Your story reinforces that.
permalink parent [] NiceAsACanadian 1 point 6 days ago
Thanks for doing this and congratulations on the success! What's the smartest investment you made? And what sort of things would you like to accomplish next?
Probably the smartest investment was buying real estate in Florida while they were cheap. As for what's next... I'm working on some new apps. I can't disclose what they are, though. As long as apps keep making me money, I'll keep making them.
permalink parent [] NiceAsACanadian 2 points 6 days ago
Very inspiring! Keep up the good work, man. /r/entreprenuer would love you.
permalink parent [] webcurse 1 point 3 days ago
I can't stop thinking about this thread man! I posted the other day, but decided to come back to read the rest of the questions. I was just wondering, how much money do your less popular apps make (if you don't want to say it's kl). Roughly tho, if i made a simple game for android and got 10k downloads (free to download), how much could I make from ads? I'm finishing uni in 3 months and have no jobs lined up, so I'll probably have a lot of spare time and will deffo try to make some simple, but addictive games. Thanks
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load more comments (1 reply) [] [deleted] 1 point 6 days ago
Downloaded your app in 2011. It was pretty cool lol. Remember thinking that I was doing something illegal by listening into police dispatch. Very weird putting a voice to that app. Congratulations!
Thanks! I bump into a few people who've downloaded or heard of my app. I've kept a private life
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all these years, so that's why you never heard of me.

permalink parent [] trueneverland 2 points 6 days ago
I'm curious, where is the source for the scanner stuff come from?
Behind every feed is someone with a real police scanner providing my app with the feeds. Sometimes it's the police department. Sometimes it's a hobbyist.
permalink parent [] trueneverland 2 points 6 days ago
Crazy. How did you go about finding these when you thought up the app idea.
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load more comments (6 replies) [] Archniles 1 point 6 days ago
From one fellow computer science individual to another, cheers and well done! Enjoyed reading this and the rebuttals to the questions. A question: looking back at your education, how much do you think you could of just picked up a book and taught yourself? After several years of schooling, I find it easier for myself to just pick up a book, read, and experiment.
Most of it could be self-taught. Just picking up a book and experimenting is the best way to learn in my opinion. You can always ask questions online if you have any.
permalink parent [] xuriouz 1 point 6 days ago
I just want to say thank you. The 5-0 flashlight actually helped me find my home quite a few times. It was the first app I ever had with the flashlight ability.
Ah, you're welcome. For those who don't know, he's referring to the flashlight feature I have in my Police Scanner+ app.
permalink parent [] xuriouz 1 point 6 days ago
Exactly.
permalink parent [] 4rch 1 point 6 days ago
I bought your app after I found out I would get more access to channels. But, after I bought the app I disappointed to discover that the only new channels i noticed were Internet radio stations The station near my location says it's police, fire, and ems, but I only hear fire and ems. Any suggestions on how to get the police feed?
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load more comments (1 reply) [] clothingoptionalx 2 points 6 days ago
If I have an idea for an App, but am worthless with coding, what is the best way to keep the idea from being stolen, but still having it worked on?
Best way would be to patent the idea. That would also be the expensive way. The other way is to make the developer sign an NDA. However, you should realize that once your app is out there
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(and is popular), it will be cloned by copycats. I've run into this problem many times. The solution is to create an app that's so good that nobody wants to switch to something else.
permalink parent [] clothingoptionalx 1 point 6 days ago
Thanks for the prompt response! Make your app synonymous with the service. Kind of like q-tip is really a cotton swab, not the other way around.
permalink parent [] haskay 1 point 5 days ago
Do you think first mover advantage is a big factor in keeping the market share. Also ease of use, and aesthetics probably go far. I am working on a start up in a growing market but I'm banking on a more attractive intuitive interface, and a mash up of unique reddit/social aggregator like features to make it big. Hopefully it can be as successful as our team hopes. But this is a fantastic AmA.
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load more comments (1 reply) [] Mblaeser 1 point 6 days ago
What are the titles of all the books you've written? I recently just graduated from college with a bachelors in marketing and I'm pretty lost on what I'm going to do. I've been applying for tons of jobs but haven't even received so much as a phone call. I know there's a lot of other people in the same boat but I'm starting to become very discouraged, could your books help with situation? Or is there any advice you could give me?
I'm not sure if my book will help you in your case. It's more for people who've been through a tragedy or want advice in entrepreneurship. Perhaps you should speak with your classmates who have found a job in your sector? Sorry that I can't be more helpful, but this seems to be beyond my scope of expertise.
permalink parent [] Robbbbbbbbb 2 points 6 days ago*
Razzi.com and a Lamborghini - Are you and Robert Himler friends? Joking, but just poking fun at the similarity.
I co-own Razzi.me with Robert Himler.

permalink parent [] Robbbbbbbbb 1 point 6 days ago
That's really funny, glad I mentioned it. It's great to see people in my generation working hard to profit and not expecting a hand-me-down. You definitely seem like a humble man, I've read through the AMA and have grown to appreciate the values you stand for. Great job and keep it up!
permalink parent [] shiv4m 1 point 6 days ago
That's weird because he always kept on saying 'razzi.me was created by my neighbor and I.' So I'm assuming you live close to him?
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load more comments (1 reply) [] trueneverland 1 point 6 days ago
I'm confused, why does your app says Dr James Leung on the iTunes page
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You must be referring to the "Copyright" field. You can put whatever you want in that field. I've sold my apps under a fake alias for a while. I didn't want anyone to know who I really was. I led a pretty private life throughout my life.
permalink parent [] somedude456 1 point 6 days ago
Beautiful car, are you bringing it to the Celebration exotic show here in a couple months? I would love to see that in person. That blue looks amazing!
Possibly. Thanks!
permalink parent [] ellemmenne 1 point 6 days ago
Thanks for doing this AMA. I think "rags to riches" app developer stories are always great and interesting. App-ish questions: 1. I've been told that it's best to create a company before publishing an app. Why is this? (Well, I think Apple requires it now, but other platforms like Windows Phone still don't.) 2. You mentioned in another post that you "code from scratch." Does this mean you don't use any other public libraries that are available? Do you literally code every part of your apps by yourself? Life-ish questions: 1. What do you think your life would be like right now if you hadn't created a multi-million dollar app? 2. How do you plan on spending the rest of your life?
1. The only reason would be for liability reasons and privacy reasons. 2. I use public libraries sometimes. But I don't always find public libraries to be bug-free. I always end up having to code something myself. 3. I'd be working at my 9-5 job at Columbia University or some tech company. I'd probably still be making side income, though. Probably through other things (like making websites). 4. I think I'm supposed to find a wife, get married, have kids, and raise a family. I'm not sure if that's happening anytime soon.
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load more comments (2 replies) [] blahtherr 1 point 6 days ago
Do you ever let anyone else drive your cars?

Only in rare occasions.

permalink parent [] buffandshine 2 points 6 days ago
Hi!
permalink parent [] shuxin 1 point 6 days ago
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have you ever been in China to get education? if you do, and in comparison to China, what do you think it is in the U.S that gives you the environment or inspiration to engage in that kind of career?
I haven't. I was raised in New York City. As for inspiration, I once saw a young guy in a white Lamborghini Murcielago pass by neighborhood (which is rare, because I didn't live in a rich neighborhood). I told my friends that I'd be him one day. They laughed at me.
permalink parent [] shuxin 2 points 6 days ago
:D now they know they laughed at the wrong person

permalink parent [] solecollector 1 point 6 days ago
Do you believe in the phrase, "If I can do it you can do it?" If so, would you use that?
No. That sounds like something a "get rich quick" marketer would say. The circumstances that made me successful may not make another person successful. Also, if someone were to copy me, he/she may not be able to duplicate my success because of factors beyond his/her control. Edit: Spelling.
permalink parent [] Mrflyvholm 1 point 6 days ago
If you should give any advices on innovation and find ideal apps, which will reach a lot of people, what would that be?
Reaching a lot of people is easy. Just have your app connect to their social media accounts (Facebook, Twitter, etc.) and have the app post on their social media accounts. This will make them advertise your app for you. The real question is, is your app worthy of people wanting to advertise it? If yes, then you've hit the jackpot.
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load more comments (3 replies) [] ApiVat 1 point 6 days ago
Nothing to ask, happy for your success! You seem like a really cool guy to be honest. The way you reply appears to be very humble. I would kill for a free copy of your autobiography, if you have it as pdf.
Thanks! PM me your email address.

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load more comments (2 replies) [] moiph 1 point 6 days ago
How do you go about deciding which apps to make, when there are many already existing in the market?
Try to come up with something original. Or, you can always take existing popular apps and make an even better version of them. For example, the popular Ruzzle game is just a copy of Scramble with Friends.
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[] m-blake 1 point 6 days ago
Happy for your success bro! You sound very grounded.

Thanks very much. I understand that posting pictures of my car can seem to be the opposite of being humble. But I hope that people understand that I'm posting pictures of my car to share its beauty with the world. I don't post them to put people down or boast. I hope people will notice the difference.
permalink parent [] m-blake 1 point 6 days ago
No problem at all with the cars. I can totally understand appreciating good engineering and design. I was judging you solely based on your comments here and I really meant it when I said you seem to have your head screwed on right so to say.
permalink parent [] hkgrx8 2 points 6 days ago
Car Question lol... So how long did you have to wait from the day you ordered till the day you actually pick up the car? And how much over the MSRP did you pay?
I ordered it in around November 2011. They told me to expect the car in December 2012. Sometime in 2012, the person who was supposed to get the car in June 2012 bailed on payment, so I managed to take his build slot. So I got the car in August 2012. There were only 3 build slots for my dealership that year. I paid exactly MSRP. No more, no less.
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load more comments (1 reply) [] Cyber_Janee 1 point 6 days ago
You're the one that exposed that man child fraud Tim Sykes? Awesome. Do you also trade penny stocks?
I didn't know that that was something to be known for. I do not trade penny stocks.
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load more comments (3 replies) [] iateone 2 points 5 days ago
Link to the expose please?

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load more comments (1 reply) [] shiv4m 1 point 6 days ago
It is amazing to see a 1 man show develop something into millions. I'm assuming this, but what do you do with all your money since developing apps has no overhead costs. Do you invest majority of it, or does it just sit in the bank?
Invest.
permalink parent [] Jamesismynames 2 points 6 days ago
What's your experience like with websites compared to apps? I'm currently looking at making a website for a new business venture, but it seems the quality of a website needs to be top notch in order for it to be successful, and I purely don't have the skills to make a website of that caliber. Is it
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the same as apps?

Yes. Quality and design is probably the most important. People are superficial and will download apps based on looks (icons/screenshots). The content is what makes people keep the app and tell their friends about it.
permalink parent [] christopheriscool 2 points 6 days ago
My friend uses that app. if he was here im pretty sure he would say thanks.
Cool
permalink parent [] flickerkuu 1 point 6 days ago
I bought your app the instant I found it. It's really well done. I use it mostly to listen to old Art Bell streams. I want to get into app design, what do you suggest? I've been involved in computers since I was a kid in 1979 but never learned anything very high level. Dabbled in Basic, Pascal, barely into machine language. Apples, Commodores, Ataris, Pc's, Macs, every smartphone. I don't feel I'm that good at math but Im ok with logic and critical thinking. DO I need to learn C++ ? Once again, thanks for the app!
Objective-C is what you want to learn.

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load more comments (3 replies) [] pogiface 1 point 6 days ago
Now that you have money and a nice car, do you worry that people speak to you just because of these things? How do you trust that women for example, if they see the car and talk to you that they really like you or are just after money? Or maybe sudden "friends (male or female) " that try and befriend you how can you trust them?
I usually give people the benefit of the doubt... until they ask me for a $50,000 "loan" (happened twice already).
permalink parent [] QQQQmore 1 point 6 days ago
Hey man, congratulations on the success. I'm a Young 25 years old Chinese American, who's spent most of my life studying hard; after 20 years pursing education, I'm about to end up with a law degree. However, the prospects of me making it big are slim to none; the job market for lawyers is extremely over saturated and I am now thinking about entrepreneurial endeavors as opposed to working in the law field.What do you think was the most important element if your success? Was it your work ethic, education level, or just opportunistic luck? How easy was it to learn how to create those apps, especially for someone with very little computer programming knowledge. Thanks for your time and congratulations on your hard work paying off!
It was focus. I had a goal and I did it. I also took a lot of opportunities when I saw them. It doesn't mean that all of them were great. But the difference is that I took them anyways. If you don't take opportunities, then you chances are close to 0%. But if you do, then you have a slightly higher chance of success. So it's not really about luck. It's more like planting seeds
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everywhere, so that eventually something might grow and become something big.
permalink parent [] ShockedUser 1 point 6 days ago
I am currently a young programmer like yourself who is also in "rags". I really am hoping to program something big to get out of here or possibly get into reverse engineering. I am not so much interested in how you coded your application but more how did you get the idea and inspiration to code the app?
Just code something that people need but is lacking in the app market.
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load more comments (2 replies) [] blingx 1 point 6 days ago
Does your book give tips on just making small income? I need a side job to pay off my 6k debt so I can refiance my house instead of losing it for the divorce. Congrats on your success. I can't even imagine something like that.
Yes. The book covers my life from when I started out (and I didn't start out with a big income).
permalink parent [] Liquidkp 1 point 6 days ago
You guys were the ones who made that video wit the three aventadors! Right? I forget but I think one of the license plates said "the boss" or something...close?
I didn't make that video, but yes, I was the blue one in that video.
permalink parent [] swordandscales 2 points 6 days ago
Regoapps, Your little story gave me some inspiration. I've spent about 7 years with the U.S. Marines and now I'm getting ready to head off to college and start a new life with my already existing family. I have to say, seeing your posts, and the responses from your fellow programmers, has kind of given me some motivation to really dive into programming more. I plan on majoring in information systems, but they have a CS program as well. Maybe I'll double major if my tiny brain can wrap around that! I'd just like to say thanks for posting here today, giving others some insight into your life, and showing a country that feels so disconnected with the top earners that at least one of you is this very legit, down to earth guy. Your photos are pretty rockin' too! My grandmother had dementia, and watching my mom go through that struggle was painful for me. The amount of courage, and selflessness you have at the moment for your mother is incredible. That is what makes you awesome. Not pawning your mother off, because you can afford to. I can't begin to tell you how much that says about you. P.S. Someone said "Where'd your friends get their Lambos?" Maybe I'm wrong, but I'm guessing a guy like this probably went out and bought said cars for his friends.
permalink [] barske 2 points 6 days ago
he said he is in a car club: http://www.reddit.com/r/IAmA/comments/17lwcs /iama_a_person_in_his_20s_who_went_from_rags_to/c86tgl7

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Thanks for your kind words and your service to this country! Good luck with college and your new life!
permalink parent [] Ilovebobbysinger 2 points 6 days ago
Hi. A really cool story, so thanks for the AMA. :) What computer setup did you use before the riches? And what do you use now? Why? Do you think the app market has reached saturation point? Do you think it will continue to grow and offer a chance at success like you? Thank you.
permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] Petelah 1 point 6 days ago
As a young entrepreneur struggling to being apps to market with little success. Where do you pull your ideas from? Do you keep a notepad for your random ideas you come Up with?
Yes, I keep a notepad for my random ideas. They just come to me.
permalink parent [] barfingrhinos 1 point 6 days ago
Sorry about your parents.

Thank you.
permalink parent [] Flukie 1 point 6 days ago
Did you have any programming experience before app development?

I have a CS degree.
permalink parent [] gatechfan 1 point 6 days ago
Hey Im a computer engineering major. Just wanted to know..... What does it really take to develop a successful app. I have had ideas in my head that ive long wanted to see come alive and hope and strive to be able to make it like you have.
To be honest, it takes many many hours of learning and coding.

permalink parent [] dmcnelly 1 point 6 days ago
When I see a story like this, I'm not jealous, but rather impressed. You were handed nothing. I applaud you for that.
Thanks. I think jealousy comes when you don't feel like something is fair (like if my parents handed me my cars for free). I also don't have such a great life (with my parents situation), so it balances things out. So I'm glad you're not jealous.
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[] cjf5555 1 point 6 days ago
Just wanted to say that you have a very nice car :)

Thank you
permalink parent [] rwentz21 1 point 6 days ago
In reading through the responses I see a few people wondering who would want an app that is a police scanner. I have a house in Central NY where a lot of the emergency responders are volunteers. I can imagine that having a phone app scanner is more efficient, convenient and less expensive than a commercial scanner.
Pretty much. There are a lot of other reasons as well.

permalink parent [] sabana_ 1 point 6 days ago
As someone who has to choose what to study in college next year... http://cdn.memegenerator.net /instances/400x/34136427.jpg
:) My advice for those people: See if you like it first... some people try it and hate it.
permalink parent [] sabana_ 1 point 5 days ago
Thanks for the reply :) It's a fifty/fifty coin toss between CS and History for me, hopefully I'll pick the right one. Hope you're mother gets better! best of the luck in the future, from Ireland
permalink parent [] trippin113 1 point 6 days ago
Your verification is only a link to a bunch of pictures that you claim as yours. What else do you have?
Verification for what? My car or my apps?

permalink parent [] acr600bhp 0 points 4 days ago
grow up.
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load more comments (1 reply) [] gkiltz 1 point 6 days ago
Have you adequately protected yourself from going back the other way?? Easy come easy go!!
Yes. 90% of income saved.

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load more comments (2 replies) [] chrisinurpants 1 point 6 days ago
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Did your downloads and book sales spike after making the front page?:)
Only a little. I'm not really doing this AMA to promote my apps or book.
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load more comments (2 replies) [] newtoreddit247 1 point 6 days ago
Thanks for the AMA. I love you app. Do you have any suggestions for App programming books or websites? I know you mentioned doing some free videos and I would love to see that happen.
I don't have any, because I don't remember what I used. I'll get those free videos up some time. Subscribe to my Facebook or Youtube and I'll post them when I'm done.
permalink parent [] gregdoom 1 point 6 days ago
I love that app. God damn. Endless entertainment.

:)
permalink parent [] Juufro 1 point 6 days ago
What helped you to push on in life when you were poor? Any tips on learning effectively? In college, the cramming and memorization bullshit I've been using in high school doesn't work anymore. I want to understand concepts and always see the larger picture.
I never actually felt poor, because that was what I grew up with. That was what was normal to me. I only realized how poor I was when I looked back on it. I realize now why my family drove cheap cars for over a decade before replacing them. And I see now why my dad rides a bicycle to work instead of driving. And I see now why I was wearing knock-off Mickey Mouse shirts when I was a kid. For me, it's actually experiment and doing the things in a real world setting that taught me the best. Do more than what people ask of you and you will get a better understanding of what you're doing.
permalink parent [] rage-rally-repeat 1 point 6 days ago
How did you teach yourself app development?

Lots of free tutorials online. There's also books at the library.

permalink parent [] PrimeTimeLimeCrime 1 point 6 days ago
Is 'making apps' the new code word for dealing drugs?

Possibly. Some of these apps are pretty addicting. I play Angry Birds, Temple Run, and "with Friends" games a lot. Though, I usually stop playing after a while and move onto something else. They were just "gateway" apps. They also are usually free at first, and then you have to pay if you want to keep using.
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[] ScabusaurusRex 2 points 6 days ago
As an unsuccessful (as of yet) entrepreneur, I have loads of questions, but... I'll just say a couple things: Thanks for the AMA. It's always nice when people who've made it throw a line back with a note attached, saying "it's nice up here" (even if life is still tough). I'm not in school (hah, for a long time), but what advice would you have for aspiring entrepreneurs with respect to schooling? Have you thought of getting involved in / are you involved in the start-up scene at all? There are lots and lots of aspiring folks who could use your insight, network of people, and, quite frankly, your money to help bring them to success. Between Kickstarter (which I think is less friendly to larger investors) and business incubators (or hell, just finding companies on "the internets"), there are plenty of worthy endeavors. Given the situation w/ your mother, have you thought of getting a live-in aid for her? There are lots of services that offer "home health aides" in NYC (hah, I've set up a webpage for one of the larger agencies in NYC), and given the bank account, you wouldn't have to jump through as many hoops. I'll leave it at that. Thanks much.
Schooling is useful if you want to network and learn a thing or two. But it is possible to do those things without schooling. I was involved with Razzi.me, which was a start-up before I joined. I also helped other companies such as Fancy Pencil, LLC with their iOS games. I have thought about that and I asked my mother. She's not the type of person who'd be comfortable with letting a non-family member take care of her. She has trust issues.
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load more comments (1 reply) [] wtf_idontknow 1 point 6 days ago
would you give me your asset interest from one month? guess it would be enough to pay back my study credit...
permalink [] C0rvette 2 points 6 days ago
I've always wondered when you have a application as popular as yours wouldn't it be logical to offer a contest that is randomly drawn to win a nice car for example such as a Nissan GTR when you purchase the paid app and then advertise it via several media and news outlets I'm sure you you could buy 30 of them after said sweepstakes. 3 entries for paid 1 for downloading for free I don't know man
Is this some kind of attempt to get a free Nissan GTR from me? :)
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load more comments (3 replies) [] shrance84 1 point 6 days ago
I have always enjoyed your Police Scanner App. I used to live on a busy street in New Orleans and every time I heard more than usual sirens, I would turn on your app. It was a very entertaining app. I always wondered though, how did you actually get permission and how did you access the channels for a police scanner?
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Thanks very much for using my app. I don't need permission. It's completely legal (in the areas that I scan). The way it works is that a person with a real police scanner connects it to his computer. Then he sends that audio to our servers. And then when you use my app, you connect to those servers and listen to the same thing that the police are listening to.
permalink parent [] woxuexihanyu 1 point 6 days ago
Is your Mandarin Chinese still good?

I know Cantonese. My parents were from southern China.

permalink parent [] SideWaysVote 1 point 6 days ago
How do you drive that shit on the FDR?

I think I've done it before.

permalink parent [] huazzy 1 point 5 days ago
apparently he lives in Florida

permalink parent [] Jarlehusian 2 points 6 days ago
What about from rags to bitches?

Not sure what you're asking.

permalink parent [] loves_reposts 1 point 6 days ago
Just wanted to say congrats on finding success. It's great to hear about people making something that others want and realizing success as a result. It's nice that you can take care of your mother.
Thank you.
Thanks
permalink parent [] youngli0n 1 point 6 days ago
i read one of your comments about what you like most about having your money is not being in debt. as someone who also has smaller scale mental issues with anxiety, mainly caused (lately) being in what some would consider a small debt of $2500, i'd like to ask, describe what it was like when you found out you'll probably never be in debt again? also the police scanner was my first app that i actually used and had so much fun with it, so i thank you. also don't let the people bother you who try and say your flashy or you're not a good person cuz you have money. some of these people don't realize that money doesn't make a person. (although it can for the weak). they're just jealous cuz they're on reddit and no one is asking them any questions. good luck to you and i wish you more success in the future!
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That's cool that you used my app. Thanks for the tip about jealous people. I'm aware that there are jealous people, and they don't bother me much. Sometimes they just have the wrong assumptions about me and I just correct them. What's it like to not be in debt again? Felt like a burden was taken off my shoulders. Felt like I just finished a finals exam.
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load more comments (1 reply) [] XtremelyNiceRedditor 1 point 6 days ago
I will work for you.

permalink [] ezmacc 1 point 6 days ago
I take it you know Robert. Tell him ezmacc said what up. I went to school with him he will know who I am.
permalink [] whatarewereallydoing 2 points 6 days ago
What's a typical work day like for you?

I work whenever I have the motivation to work. So I don't have "work days". I just have "work hours". But typically it just means me sitting in front of my computer and typing away like a madman.
permalink parent [] TheLongLostBoners 1 point 6 days ago
dont have a question but just want to let you know, your story is a huge inspiration! a job well done, sir! also, your app has saved my buddies and myself a few times so thank you for that too!
Ah, I'm glad to hear! Would love to know how it saved your buddies and yourself. (are you part of a gang of bank robbers?)
permalink parent [] yaz_n 1 point 6 days ago
I too taught myself how to develop apps what would you say is the best way to make a revenue from the process?
Make an app and sell it?

permalink parent [] mjallemand 1 point 6 days ago
The smartphone app market seems like a hard one to crack. When you've got thousands, if not millions of competitors it seems like a bit of a gamble as to if you're going to get noticed.
Correct. But keep in mind that most apps are pretty bad. So just don't make a bad app, and people will notice it (after you've told a few thousands of people about it).
permalink parent [] DanielAmon 1 point 6 days ago
Would I be correct in assuming that you and Robert Himmler know each other?
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Correct
permalink parent [] CUNT_SUCKING_PHAGGOT 0 points 6 days ago
from rags to riches nigga i aint dumb, i've got 99 problems being poor ain't one. sup J.
permalink [] TimeWaster2000 1 point 6 days ago
Probably to late now, but here goes. Do you ever have a hard time being treated like a kid because of your age despite your obvious intellect and success? I'm only a couple years older and I own my own successful chain of businesses. When people want to treat me like I'm stupid or a kid it's hard for me sometimes to fight the urge to throw my success in their face. P.S. Your car is beautiful
I talk to people much older than me just fine. People respect me and don't treat me like a kid, because I don't act like a kid. No need to throw your success in anyone's face. Just let your work do the talking. When they see that they're speaking to an expert, they will not treat you like a kid.
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load more comments (2 replies) [] nihsoleirbag 1 point 6 days ago
you probably won't get this far down in the comments, but i just wanted to say that i'm incredibly happy for you and the success you were able to create for yourself without needing handouts in order to achieve said success. with that being said, i wanted to know if you're interested in app ideas/pitches that a guy like myself wouldn't be able to create. either way, good work all around, especially with the volunteer stuff and being there for your mom.
I don't really have time to take on new projects, but thanks for your kind words.
permalink parent [] sevenalive 1 point 5 days ago
I am, throw me those ideas.

permalink parent [] AMBsFather 1 point 6 days ago
I have become increasingly interested in learning how to develop applications for both iPhone and Android devices. Though I don't like making excuses, I work Monday-Friday 8-5 with OT on most days to catch up on work and my free time is all given to my fiance and 2 yr old daughter. I am only 25 and know that i have A LOT left ahead of me. I was recently at Barnes and Noble last week reading some programming books for "Beginners" but realized that different editions have a way of teaching noobs like me. Can you give me advice how you taught yourself when you were a "beginner" or what books you used to teach yourself application development? I am not looking to learn this for money but to rather enhance my knowledge and gain experience with it. My family is my wealth and I would like for them to be proud of me to learn new skills and my daughter to look up to me as a knowledgeable person, whether its with advice or just intelligent conversation i look forward having with her. Thanks for any advice and i hope you come across my comment.
I don't really remember which books I used. I read a lot of books back then. The best way of
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learning is to actually just do it and experiment.

permalink parent [] Dreamtrain 1 point 6 days ago
What other apps have you written? How do you come up with ideas to write an app? I'd love to write something for my new android but then I stop because I can't think of any ideas as to what to make.
My apps are listed in regoapps.com and smartestapple.com I also made apps for other companies like Razzi.
permalink parent [] alixbydesign 1 point 6 days ago
What part of Florida do you live in? I'd race you with my 2.5 liter Nissan Altima! BRING IT ON!
Central Florida. See you on the streets! :)

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load more comments (1 reply) [] notoriouz 1 point 6 days ago
Is there a reason that some of the location on the 5-0 app only give you the option to listen to Fire and EMS scanners? I was trying to listen to the Police Scanner for my local area and it doesn't appear to be an option.
You need to ask that question at radioreference.com. They run the feeds, not me. I'm just an app developer.
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load more comments (1 reply) [] shamoni [ ] 2 points 6 days ago
Jesus that's a beautiful car. Congrats on the dough, sorry about the parents.
Thanks.
permalink parent [] allonzy 1 point 6 days ago
What do you do for fun? What is your social life like? Have you done any traveling?
I do what normal people do. I'm pretty much the same person as I was before I became successful. I just have more free time to do the things I wanted to do. My social life is almost the same, except I have a few more friends now than before. I did travel in the past, but it's restricted now because I have to take care of my mother.
permalink parent [] Matrees1 1 point 6 days ago
When you finished your app, How did you go about marketing/advertising it? Did you just leave it to grow or did you spend a lot of time making it known?
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I grew it at the beginning. Then I just watched it grow by itself.

permalink parent [] tripstuff 2 points 6 days ago
You may have stopped paying attention to this already, but I just want to say that I'm very proud of you for accomplishing so much with your life. I am currently 21, studying both computer science and computer engineering, and have a father who's had dementia for the past several years. That, amongst other things, has caused me to have a very turbulent home life. Recently I've been feeling down on myself, but your story of success, determination, and humility have really been an inspiration to me. Thanks for sharing your story and I wish the best for you and your family.
:) Same to you. Wish you and your family the best.

permalink parent [] monte11 1 point 6 days ago
No question here, but you seem like a really cool guy and I'm happy for you and your success. Thanks for the AMA, and keep paying it forward, you're making the world a better place.
Thank you!
permalink parent [] EzShot 1 point 6 days ago
Thanks for sharing your story. I'm a college student in a similar position, and hearing your story is inspirational. I know you said you started websites when you were a teen. As far as when you started learning to code apps, did most of the education come from the internet or were your college classes the biggest help?
Apps weren't even invented when I was in college. So most of the education were self-taught. However, having a programming background made me learn the material much faster. It's like learning Spanish if you already know English. It helps.
permalink parent [] centwo2 1 point 6 days ago
I just finished up my first feature film. I started working on my second film and would like to use your application in it would that be a problem ? I also just want to say congratulations on your success, As a person that has tried to start up a handful of company's and failed, but I keep trying and I learn something new ever time and that is what matter to me.
I'd have to get more details about how the app's used first before I'm okay with it.
permalink parent [] speromeliora 1 point 6 days ago
Probably too late for you to see this, but...I have 5-0 radio on my phone, down in Texas. Its the best "scanner" on the market. Now, I am going to upgrade. Maybe you made a buck off the free one and maybe you will make a buck off the upgrade. Either way, we both win. Glad to see you survived and prevailed.
Thanks very much. You might want to look into the successor of my 5-0 Radio app: Police Scanner+ (try the free version first and see if you like the changes I made)
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load more comments (1 reply) [] oneAngrySonOfaBitch 1 point 6 days ago
How hard is it for you to date or make friends ?

Not hard. Just be friendly and people will be friendly towards you.
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load more comments (2 replies) [] craigerator 1 point 5 days ago
How did you get people to notice your first app? Did you have to advertise, or did you just put it in the app store for them to find?
I never spent a single cent on advertising. Post it up on the app store, and tell people about it. If it's good, people will tell their friends, and hopefully it'll go viral.
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load more comments (4 replies) [] granfondo 1 point 5 days ago
What is the best way to learn to develop apps?

There's the free way: Searching online for free tutorials. Then there's the expensive way: Go to a class for it. Then there's the middle way: Buy a book on it. So it depends on how much you want to spend and how much you want to learn on your own.
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load more comments (1 reply) [] nrl2k12 1 point 5 days ago
What's your oppinion on native apps vs. html5/js apps? Do you think your apps could've been equally successfull if they were written in html5/js?
HTML5/JS was really easy to code. I think it might be the future of app development (especially for web developers who don't want to get into too much coding). As for success, I don't think it has an effect.
permalink parent [] jjh1963 1 point 5 days ago
I love your app...in fact I am using it right now. THANK YOU!

:)
permalink parent [] TheVeeginator 1 point 5 days ago
You are an inspiration man, one day I hope to be n the exact same position as you are now (rages to riches but still humble and giving back to the community). Keep being awesome!
Thank you. I wish you the best of luck!

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Awesome :)
permalink parent [] nahatlu 1 point 5 days ago
Apart from Arnold Schwarzenegger, I have never been so interested in an AMA! I work a full time job but I'm so interested in the app market. I have a considerable number of ideas which could potentially work, however, I do not know how to programme. I have two books on iOS development and I'm currently saving money (albeit very slowly) to hire a programmer. Thank you so much for doing this AMA. What kind of research did you do prior to app development? Did you test the software yourself? I've read there are a lot of extra hidden charges when developing an app e.g. if you want your app to be able to send emails. Did you encounter any? What is the app market like now? Is there still room for many more apps? What sort of marketing did you do in advance of/during the release of an app? Thanks again!
Not sure what you mean by research. I learned how to develop apps and then I developed them. I had a CS degree before that. Of course I test it. I'm a one-man show, so I have to test the software myself. Sending emails in an app is easy. I'm not sure what you mean by hidden charges, because I develop my own apps. Make sure that you get a fixed price quote upfront and don't get screwed later on. There's always room. It's like asking if the movie market has no more room. There's always room for innovation. Word of mouth mostly. I let my apps speak for themselves. People tell other people about my apps themselves.
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load more comments (2 replies) [] ellafitz 1 point 5 days ago
I actually downloaded the app a couple days ago!! Cool! I'm sorry for you loss. I'm sure your dad would be proud of who you have become. Best wishes.
Cool. Thanks for using my app.

permalink parent [] optimuspenguin 1 point 5 days ago
As someone who has recently come into wealth, how do you feel about the controversy over raising taxes on the wealthy?
I don't really want to get into politics. I think there are better people out there who can answer this question. But I will say that I am okay if I get taxed more. If the money is genuinely used to help less fortunate people, then that's great. I grew up with some people who would have been starving children if the government didn't provide aid to them. If the money is genuinely used to help people get back on their feet and start making a living for themselves, then that's even better. If helping people makes me a socialist, then so be it. I have a lot of rich friends who disagree with me, though. So let's not get into politics too much.
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[] FuckeredUp 1 point 5 days ago
Do you think its possible to make close to this kind of money with droid apps?
Probably, if you have many apps.

permalink parent [] gerbnast 1 point 5 days ago
Hey admire what you are doing! As a chinese american, Ive been homeless for a long time now, living in casinos and such. Is there any advice you can give when the chips are down and you know the situation doesnt seem to get better?
I'll give you my autobio for free.

permalink parent [] haskay 1 point 5 days ago
Was Police 5-0 your first major application you created? How long did it take for the application to pick up and what were your marketing methods to have it grow? You sound like a smart and grounded individual not bullshitting us saying everyone can do it, circumstances are certainly a big factor in this. Congratulations on the success.
My first major app was NewsFeed. That was the #1 news app back in 2009. 5-0 Radio came out in October 2009 I think. It became the #1 paid app in Australia in November 2009. And thanks!
permalink parent [] [deleted] 1 point 5 days ago
Are you single right now or are you currently dating? Is that girl who was riding with you on that lambo video your girlfriend or friend? I asked because I don't think it's hard to get girls once they know how much you're worth, but it's hard to find the right one who isn't only attracted to the money. How do you go around that issue? You don't have to answer this if you don't want to, but have any one of your friends or family come ask you for money? Has money been the issue behind losing some friendships? Thank you.
I'm not married, but I am dating. That girl who's riding with me is not my GF. She's my friend. Money isn't really a big issue as long as you don't flash it around everywhere. I've been asked for money before by friends and family. It's hard not to be tempted; it's like Bilbo Baggins in LOTR after he gave away his ring to Frodo.
permalink parent [] Squeezer99 1 point 5 days ago
how do you pick up streams of police scanners to rebroadcast them over the app? Do the cities make their police radio traffic available on a public stream?
Some do. Other streams are picked up by hobbyists with real police scanners. They then upload that audio to our servers and we rebroadcast them.
permalink parent [] GrdnGekko 1 point 5 days ago
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Thanks for doing this AMA and inspiring people! :)

:)
permalink parent [] johnwayne1 1 point 5 days ago
Hey, I downloaded that Police scanner app. Awesome. How was it legal for them to rebrand it for the movie?
Simple. Ever see those fake products in movies? They do that to avoid having to pay the real companies for using their trademarks.
permalink parent [] HoneyBadger93 1 point 5 days ago
Do you daily drive the Lamborghini? If so, anything you love/hate about using it as a daily driver?
Yes in the sense that I'd take it to get groceries. And no in the sense that I don't have to go outside everyday, since I work from home. I hate low gas mileage. I waste a lot of time at the gas stations.
permalink parent [] ShannonChanel 2 points 5 days ago
What did you study in college?

Computer Science and Computer Engineering.

permalink parent [] sigrid2 1 point 5 days ago
Could a police tracker app be developed to track the location of cop cars in your city or is this against the law ?
Probably against the law. I think there are laws against stalking.
permalink parent [] orionsshoe 1 point 5 days ago
How did you come up with your idea?

They just pop into my head as I'm doing everyday things.

permalink parent [] Carmiche 1 point 5 days ago
How long did it take you to go from no knowledge in coding to being able to make app store ready applications?
Well, I have a degree in CS before I learned how to code. With a degree, it took me only a few weekends to learn it. I don't know how long it would take if I didn't have a degree and years of programming experience. Maybe a few months?
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load more comments (4 replies) [] webcurse 1 point 5 days ago
Was procrastinating because I'm struggling to complete this battleships game on android for my final year project and came across this. What an inspiration you are!
Thanks. Best of luck to your battleship game!

permalink parent [] tabledresser 0 points 5 days ago* Questions Have you ever become overwhelmed with the sudden wealth? going from "rags to riches" must have been great, and good on you mate, but was there ever a time you were thinking maybe this is too much? Has the police app been the most successful so far? or do you have others that are doing well, too? "Humble" says the kid with the blue lambo, lol. That's a little flashy.. At least if it were black, I might consider you humble. But not blue lol. I'm not hating, I'm just sayin... Don't be afraid or too prideful to pay for professional help with your mother. Answers My parents taught me to be humble, and I've kept myself grounded as much as I can. I try not to forget who I was just 5 years ago or so. I don't see myself as a "wealthy" person. I see myself as a middle-class person with small lottery winnings. I've tucked away about 90% of my income into savings/investments and promised myself to never touch those unless it's an emergency. I also kept my friends from childhood, as they are my true friends. What I'd say was "too much" was that I'm the only person taking care of my mother, who was diagnosed with paranoid psychosis. She shows signs of schizophrenia as well. Taking care of her has been stressful, but I'm the only one who's willing to do it, so I do.
It's the most successful, but my other apps have made small fortunes as well.
That's a fair assessment. But that's assuming that I drive my car everywhere and go "stunting" or whatever. My car doesn't define me, nor do I want it to define me. The way I talk to strangers and treat people is how I'd like to be defined. I've been through a messed-up life and getting a nice car is how I dealt with it. My car is my fortress of solitude, where I can be alone for a few minutes and enjoy my life. As for the color, I thought blue wasn't that flashy. It's a pretty classy color for a Lamborghini. Definitely much less flashier than the lime green that I used to have. I tried. But my mother doesn't believe that she has mental problems. When her doctor gave her anti-psychotic medicine, she threw them out.
View the full table on /r/tabled! | Last updated: 2013-02-04 21:51 UTC This comment was generated by a robot! Send all complaints to epsy.
permalink [] TheAristocrat567 1 point 5 days ago
Has Rizzo.me gained any traction? What are you paying out to the top 10 users?
I cannot disclose Razzi.me finances. Sorry.

permalink parent [] casualredditcreeper 1 point 5 days ago
Allen, I've got a great idea for an app that would change the way we wait. I'm not a developer and never have been and really dont want to be one, what is the best way I can get my idea out of my head and into the app store?
Either learn how to code or hire someone to do it. One is cheaper but takes more work.
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load more comments (1 reply) [] rewrewsuh 1 point 5 days ago
how much did it cost the movie producers to use your app? how lnog did it take you to learn how to make apps?
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I didn't take any money from them. It took me a few weekends to learn basic app stuff, and then a few months for more advanced stuff.
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load more comments (1 reply) [] zaneluke 1 point 5 days ago
As a father can I just tell you that your dad would be very proud of you. I am not talking about the financial success, but your positive attitude. It appears that you did not let it get to your head. Your dad would be very very proud of you.
permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] Eff3ction 2 points 5 days ago
I'm curious about how you got the police plate, and frame, and what you're involvement is with them to get such? And what all that entails during... day to day driving?
You make a donation to the police department and they give you one. It's not difficult to get one. I don't know if it makes a difference to day to day driving. But I haven't gotten pulled over yet (fingers crossed).
permalink parent [] lawlshane 1 point 5 days ago
If you're ever in Toronto, can I give you a high five?

permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] good00 0 points 5 days ago
you said your dad was an herbalist. What's your opinion on Chinese medicine? Herbs? Acupuncture? Do you use it?
permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] permanentpeace 2 points 5 days ago
Marker
permalink load more comments (5 replies) [] iateone 1 point 5 days ago
How do you keep a car like that in NYC? Why do you have Florida plates on a New York Car?
permalink load more comments (3 replies) [] Rude_Etude 1 point 5 days ago
Apps, yes, this has been a golden mini-age of apps. There are other things doing really well right now. Salvage, any kind of recycling, any kind of thing that involves saving stuff that was made in the past and would be very expensive to make now. I deal with electronic surplus and I come across connectors by the bag that are $7 each, in new condition. Or, are $70 each, that happens too. A lot of stuff just gets thrown out. Anything that helps people set up a garden, or raising chickens, etc. Stuff like that is big. Hey congrats on that app. Someone had to come up with the idea and do it, and I'd rather see a rags to riches story than that some rich kid at MIT did it and already has tons of money and the
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perfect family.
permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] xthinker 1 point 5 days ago
What makes you determine when to upload an app for free with ads or put a price on it? Thanks for doing this Allen, very inspiring.
permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] sammadood 1 point 5 days ago
Just wanted to say sweet car, and i enjoyed reading the AMA. also kind of random but I went go karting when Robert himler went and I believe you were there too. I remember the plate on the gallardo haha
permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] matthewrpollock 1 point 5 days ago
Do you ever meet someone and just give them money or a really generous gift? I always thought if I make it rich with this app I am trying to develop that I would be the kind of person that would just pay for others groceries every once in a while, or other generous acts of kindness, like go to a tow truck company at the end of a day and pay for a few cars to be released so the owner has a slightly better day.
permalink load more comments (2 replies) [] fluxBurns 1 point 5 days ago*
Edit: just seen the link to amazon. Ignore first question. I just bought it! Where can I get your biography? Does it have info on how you went about succeeding on the app store? Out of curiosity, where does your app draw the feeds from? Are the police forces publishing their feeds online or did you reach some kind of deal with them.
permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] nionvox 1 point 5 days ago
I'm sorry about your mom :< I'm happy you can still have some sort of relationship with her though - my mom has pretty serious mental issues (multiple personality, delusions) and I had to cut her off completely. I'm also trying to develop a free (web) app. Did you handle the entire thing yourself, or did you seek out others?
permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] davidrab 1 point 5 days ago
wow congrats on your success! where did the name rego apps come from?
permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] fewjative 1 point 5 days ago
Hi Allen! I am currently a computer science student who has mostly learned Java,HTML,CSS,JavaScript and would now like to break into the iOS market. Do you have any specific recommendations for material in regards to iOS development? I just bought http://www.amazon.com/iPhone-iPad-App-24-Hour-Trainer/dp/1118130812 but I know there is
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always more great content that I could use to be successful! Also, I am currently in the process of creating a startup and was hoping that I could consult you with some questions as our startup develops.
permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] xthinker 1 point 5 days ago
I've an idea for an app but have no experience with programming. Would you recommend me to use a website such as www.odesk.com to find a developer or would you recommend something else? Thanks for doing this!
permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] SwampJew 1 point 5 days ago
1. How much money do you suppose your bank accounts, assets, contracts and annuities are worth, all-in? 2. How did you teach yourself to code apps? I am very interested in that, and coded C and J when I was a kid (13 then, over 30 now) and would really like to make some of my ideas happen. Giving away my ideas to people who I thought would give something back to me got me screwed over twice when developers turned my ideas into two of the biggest selling apps there are.
permalink load more comments (3 replies) [] Drollific 1 point 5 days ago
Hi Allen, my name is Daniel Lomas, I'm a filmmaker and have been doing documentaries for TED.com and soulpancake.com. I know this is asking a lot but I wonder if there is any possibility to make a documentary about your life? On your terms, whenever you have time.
permalink load more comments (2 replies) [] kivarenn82 1 point 5 days ago
Anything eh? well I tell you what.. Can you give me about tree-fiddy? Congratulations on your success and good on your for taking care of family and volunteering your time for the less fortunate :)
permalink [] SuperLootDOTnet 1 point 5 days ago
I love reading rags to riches stories. As a business owner and entrepreneur they're always very inspiring to read. My question: How many 'failed' apps did you make before finally striking it big with one?
permalink load more comments (3 replies) [] VideoLinkBot 0 points 5 days ago
Here are the collected video links posted in response to this post (deduplicated to the best of my ability):
Source Comment Video Link regoapps Drollific RandomCDN regoapps regovids The Power of Introverts - Ep 1 Dr. Xavier Amador regovids
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Source Comment Video Link FordSVT1 permalink [] EkmSohal 1 point 5 days ago Lamborghini Aventador Twin Turbo LP700-4 by Underground Racing
What program, or what did you do to create an app? How did you get it on the App store? How did your apps get popular?
permalink load more comments (5 replies) [] Fuuark 1 point 5 days ago
Wouldn't making 100-200 unoriginal apps be a fairly easy (although time consuming) way to make some money? Things like filters for photos, basic editing for photos, games like checkers/chess.
permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] bonksnp 2 points 5 days ago*
Just wanted to say you've inspired me to be on youtube and google for the majority of this afternoon watching/reading tutorials on java and coding. :) I've always wanted to make an app (just to see it in an app store somewhere) and your story has inspired me to do so. Thanks so much for posting this. And pardon if this has already been asked, but do you only develop apps for iOS? Or do you do Android apps as well? PS. Sorry to hear about the nail in your tire and broken mirror. Must have ruined your day. :(
permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] Erix81 2 points 5 days ago
You made that scanner?? As an aspiring firefighter i wanted to say thank you! I use that app a lot. And if you want to get me a job as one i'd appreciate it(: thanks again love the app.
permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] captain_obvious_scum 1 point 5 days ago
Wow. True success. I like you dude. Similar to my 2 friends who own a 2013 Nissan GTR Ecutek Stage 2 E85 Ethanol and a Mclaren MP4-12C. That's one reason why I picked up Python and now am picking up Java.
permalink [] seeceejayrun 1 point 5 days ago
Told my roommate about your success story and he asked what app it was. He ended up buying it.
permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] DrShavedCock69 2 points 5 days ago
Haha that's surprising, I've had that app for a while now good work ;)
permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] rafbo 1 point 5 days ago
Thanks for answering every single question!

permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] tina0087 1 point 5 days ago
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Hey I just downloaded this app yesterday. Great job

permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] InitialFounder 1 point 5 days ago
Oh yeah? Well sometimes if I'm lucky I can get starbucks

permalink load more comments (2 replies) [] AshWalPoll 1 point 4 days ago
I've always wanted to come up with something that would make me money like that (invention,app etc;) However, I can't seem to come up with any creative, witty ideas. Props to you.
permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] bigjeff_125 1 point 4 days ago
You have really made me think about things differently as I am trying to provide a little more towards my family. Have been thinking about going back to school to brush up on things i haven't used since I got my CIT degree. Thank you for doing this AMA! Condolences on you mother and loosing your father.
permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] ReMiCkS_25 1 point 4 days ago
what was it like when the app really started making money?
permalink load more comments (3 replies) [] hpski 1 point 4 days ago
Hey Allen, I've been following you on FB for a long while(through Himler, though we both know what went down on L4P I think :P). and read your Secret Entourage interview a long time ago. My question is - have you gone to the Android market? I know iOS seems more appealing to some, but if you haven't, why? All the best to you man, you're the person I sometimes look up to.
permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] kroiler 1 point 4 days ago
Since you are so young, sounds like you got a big pile of money dumped on you all at once... What are some of the first significant things you purchased with the money??? Car, new home, vacation???
permalink load more comments (1 reply) [] KingOfNeptune 1 point 4 days ago
yhg
permalink [] rockstarlove2009 1 point 3 days ago
No questions for you, just wanted to let you know that my 57 year old father got his first Android phone (just 3 months ago mind you) for the sole purpose of listening to your app. He plays the shit all day long no matter where he is -.- Congrats on your success tho lol
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[] rjhall90 1 point 3 days ago
For anyone who wants to see the Tim Sykes exposure: http://regoapps.com/tim-sykes-scam/
permalink [] Naramie 1 point 3 days ago
Where's a good place to start if I'm interested in possibly learning to make apps? Like languages, stuff like that.
permalink load more comments (3 replies) [] PolitBro 1 point 2 days ago
What did you think of U.S tax policy/ how much should be redistributed via a welfare state before you earned your riches, what do you think now?
permalink load more comments (2 replies) [] tonybanks 1 point 6 days ago
I'm less fortunate....will you help me?

PM me your email address. I'll send you my book of wisdom for free. "Teach a man to fish..."
permalink parent [] coffedrank 6 points 6 days ago
Teach a man to hamburger

permalink parent [] Cockdieselallthetime 0 points 6 days ago
I develop apps. China /thread

Not sure what you mean by this. I was born and raised in America.
permalink parent [] sheep_duck 1 point 6 days ago
Came into this thread because of the car talk and links, ended up reading because of your family story. My father passed away last september very suddenly (died in his sleep due to unknown cause) so I can somewhat relate. I just wanted to say thanks for all the good you do in the world. Also would like to say I like your choice of car haha. I think if I were in any similar situation I'd have an Aventador as well as a GT-R. Is the lambo the ONLY car you care to drive? Do you have any itches to try out different cars? Again thanks for sharing your story It's been truly inspiring reading this thread. By the way are you still giving out your autobiography/advice document? I've followed people on the internet who all share the "get rich" schemes and they all run into dead ends but I'd be interested to read one from a humble guy such as yourself. If so, I'll PM you my email I guess.
Sorry to hear about your father. I was really only giving my book away to that one person. But because of your loss, I'll make an exception and give you the book for free as well. But for everyone else, I'll offer you a 50% discount on the eBook for being a Reddit reader. I don't have itches to drive any other car (except for the Pagani Zonda R, Pagani Huayra, and Ariel Atom 500).
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[] M3g4d37h 1 point 6 days ago
http://i.imm.io/UHcz.png I bought your 5-0 app over a year ago, and as a someone who grew up with a scanner around, it's pretty cool.
Awesome.
permalink parent [] albinoturtles1 -7 points 6 days ago
give us your address so we can all send you a FUCKING COOKIE...douchebag

permalink [] supkay -10 points 6 days ago
You post pictures of models and exotic cars. That's pretty douchey. Come off as an insecure nerd with a small penis who thinks materialistic bullshit makes you cool.
Are you referring to my photography website? You do know that I run a photography business where I take photos of models with exotic cars to give them a better portfolio, right? Congrats on being the first person to make a "small penis" insult today, btw.
permalink parent [] IntraderCFA 5 points 6 days ago
Don't worry about that guy. He's just jealous that you don't have to work a day in your life again while he toils away as a wage-slave on his knees in front of his boss so he can get a half day off.
permalink parent [] exzacklyright 2 points 6 days ago
So utterly true and sad.

permalink parent [] supkay -1 points 5 days ago
Yeah, it's pretty shallow. A truly humble person would focus their energy elsewhere. A nerdy insecure guy who wants to compensate for lack of attraction to the opposite sex would show off with money, cars, and women.
Maybe for attracting gold diggers. But the type of women I'm attracted to wouldn't be attracted to my money, cars, and women. It's actually mostly men who look at my photography website. You're also assuming that I'm not already in a happy committed relationship. My advice: Don't make assumptions about people you don't know. :)
permalink parent [] fluxBurns 2 points 5 days ago
Ignore those guys. Enjoy your money and the fun you can have with it. No reason to feel ashamed of being successful.
Thanks
permalink parent [] coffedrank 4 points 6 days ago
You seem internet-angry.
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Are you internet-angry?

permalink parent [] johnasks 1 point 5 days ago
First of all, congratulations. I've been quite lazy lately. There's been almost two years I'm developing the same simplistic game app but I never get it finished and it's already driving me crazy for postponing this stuff. It makes no sense but sometimes I caught myself depressed because I have no clue why I'm developing this or doing that. What advice you can give to me in order for me to have the energy to get it finished as soon as possible? Thanks
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IAmA A Person in His 20s Who Went From - Rags To Riches - During The Recession. AMA. - IAmA

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IAmA A Person in His 20s Who Went From - Rags To Riches - During The Recession. AMA. - IAmA

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IAmA a person in his 20s who went from "rags to riches" during the reces...

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[] WisdomOfLife 1 point 5 days ago

load more comments (2 replies) [] I-C-U-P 17 points 6 days ago

How much better is life when you got a lot of money?

load more comments (2 replies) [] 10b-5 2 points 5 days ago

load more comments (2 replies) [] Snufflesaur 24 points 6 days ago

do you have a blue Lamborghini?

no, but I don't care. I have a car and it works.

[] iobserver 2 points 6 days ago

Do you wake up happy or sad?

load more comments (3 replies) [] wagonsarebetter 15 points 6 days ago

you have restored my faith in humanity.

load more comments (5 replies) [] oh_the_humanity 0 points 6 days ago

Estimated amount of money made from "5-0 Radio Police Scanner?

I did miss it indeed. Sorry for being redundant. :)

[] Fuuark 4 points 5 days ago

load more comments (1 reply) [] GucciTheWalrus 45 points 6 days ago

how i met my money

Thanks for that. It's one of my favorite shows :)

You need to copyright that shit. Buy the url, too.

[] dbfish 28 points 6 days ago

Kindle edition on amazon, $9.99. eBook on your website, $19.95....

He is loaded for a reason.

Is that you on the cover? Or someone you know?

load more comments (1 reply) [] IAMARedneckScientist 5 points 6 days ago

load more comments (2 replies) [] tacodepollo 1 point 6 days ago

Any love for the 284th person?

This is awesome, you are a great person.

load more comments (1 reply) [] PotatoPop 15 points 6 days ago*

load more comments (2 replies) [] JohnWad 37 points 6 days ago

[] regoapps [S] 14 points 6 days ago

ad companies fill out the ads when iAds doesn't.

Please answer this...

I should've realized that. Thanks for the answer.

load more comments (1 reply) [] wheels_go_round 11 points 6 days ago

Says he's keeping it humble, license plate says "boss" ;)

You have the greatest license plate fucking ever.

:) Glad someone appreciates it.

So much respect and bro love out to you.

Thanks! Back at you.

I love the Jack Sparrow song, haha!

I'm pretty sure that's illegal, even for rich people.

sure to wash as much coal off of them first as you can.